Cameroon Minister of Territorial Administration, Paul Atanga Nji, held a press briefing on October 26, 2018, to address concerns over attempts to disrupt public order. He highlighted that the presidential election, which took place on October 7, 2018, was conducted in a calm and serene atmosphere. The electoral process involved five major stages: convening of the electorate, electoral campaign, voting, electoral litigations, and the proclamation of results by the Constitutional Council.
According to Minister Atanga Nji, President Paul Biya gave firm instructions to the administration to ensure the election was secured and held in optimal conditions. Elections Cameroon (ELECAM), the independent organ responsible for the material organization of the presidential election, put in place measures to ensure the election met internationally-acceptable standards. These objectives were largely attained, with the electoral campaign and voting taking place without major incidents.
However, Minister Atanga Nji expressed regret over a candidate's actions before and after the presidential election. The candidate made illegal and anti-constitutional declarations, including proclaiming himself the winner of the election before the Constitutional Council had made an official announcement. Despite initially abiding by the rules and petitioning the Constitutional Council, the candidate later contested the verdict, which is final.
The candidate and his followers engaged in provocative acts and attempted to organize insurrections, contravening existing laws, including the Penal Code and the Anti-terrorism law. These laws punish acts such as terrorism and incitation to rebellion. The people of Cameroon showed maturity by not giving in to these provocations.
Minister Atanga Nji emphasized that attempts to disrupt public order will be handled with all firmness. He assured that the administration will take necessary measures to maintain peace and stability in the country. The Minister's statement comes amid concerns over social peace and the potential for unrest.
The 2018 presidential election in Cameroon was a significant event, with President Paul Biya seeking re-election. The election was observed by various stakeholders, who generally appreciated the calm and serene atmosphere in which it took place. However, the post-election period saw increased tensions and attempts to contest the results.
The Cameroonian government has reiterated its commitment to maintaining public order and upholding the law. Minister Atanga Nji's statement serves as a warning to those who would seek to disrupt peace and stability in the country. The government will continue to take measures to ensure the well-being and security of its citizens.
Key points
- The Cameroonian government will handle attempts to disrupt public order with all firmness.
- The 2018 presidential election in Cameroon was conducted in a calm and serene atmosphere.
- A candidate's actions before and after the election contravened existing laws and attempted to disrupt social peace.
