Cameroon's opposition leader in The Gambia after fleeing for his safety

Cameroon's Opposition Leader Seeks Refuge in The Gambia

In a dramatic turn of events following Cameroon’s disputed presidential election of October 12, 2025, opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary has fled to The Gambia, citing threats to his safety.

Bakary, who contested the legitimacy of President Paul Biya’s re-election, insists that he was the rightful winner of the vote. He alleges widespread fraud that secured Biya, now 92 years old and the world’s oldest sitting president, an eighth term in office.

The Gambian government confirmed that Bakary arrived on November 7, 2025, and was granted temporary sanctuary on humanitarian grounds. Authorities emphasized that his presence was permitted in the spirit of African solidarity, while stressing that The Gambia would not serve as a base for subversive activities against Cameroon. Until this announcement, Bakary’s whereabouts had been shrouded in mystery, fueling speculation across the region.

Cameroon’s government has accused Bakary of inciting violent demonstrations in the aftermath of the election. Official figures put the death toll from post-election unrest at 16, though independent organizations suggest the number may be higher. Bakary has denied responsibility, instead blaming security forces for the crackdown on protesters. He has vowed to continue resisting Biya’s government until his “victory” is recognized, calling for street protests and “ghost town” operations designed to paralyze urban centers.

The Gambian opposition party, the United Democratic Party (UDP), criticized its government for delaying the announcement of Bakary’s arrival, raising concerns about transparency and accountability. Nonetheless, the UDP expressed pride that The Gambia could provide sanctuary to a political dissenter, noting its own history of resisting authoritarianism.

Bakary’s defection underscores the deepening political crisis in Cameroon. Biya, who has ruled for 43 years, was declared the winner with 53.7% of the vote, while Bakary secured 35.2%. The disputed outcome has heightened tensions, with fears of prolonged instability if a diplomatic resolution is not reached.

The Gambian authorities have reiterated their commitment to facilitating peaceful dialogue, but the situation remains volatile.

This episode highlights the fragility of democratic processes in parts of Africa, where contested elections often lead to unrest and exile. For Bakary, The Gambia represents both a refuge and a platform from which he continues to challenge Biya’s decades-long grip on power.