31.10.2025
Cameroon opposition leader, Issa Tchiroma Bakary, Friday morning accused agents of President Paul Biya’s government of kidnapping his family members and personal chef.
Tchiroma who is holding on to his claim of winning the October 12 presidential election said in a statement that two of his family members and the chef were kidnapped in Garoua on Wednesday night.
“It looks like an open war against the Cameroonian people. They spare nothing: assassinations, repression, and other abuses. They do not want peace. For them, every means must be used to remain in power, because they fear the consequences if they leave, hence the extreme violence of their actions.
“That is why, yesterday, they kidnapped two members of my family here in Garoua, as well as my personal cook.
“Do you think you can pressure me with such acts? All you will succeed in doing is alienating the people even more. I demand their immediate release, as well as that of all others who have been kidnapped or arbitrarily detained,” Tchiroma said.
Meanwhile Tchiroma said he is now under the proctection of some “elements of the loyalist army.”
“I ask all those who have been arbitrarily arrested, to my kidnapped family members, hang in there — I will not rest until this regime gives you victory,” he declared.
“I thank the loyalist army for showing patriotism by leading me to safety and protecting me now,” he said, adding, “I will make a solemn address in a few moments.”
While the government has yet to respond to the allegations, rights groups have raised concerns over arbitrary arrests and the use of force against opposition supporters.
Cameroon constitutional council declared 92-year-old Paul Biya winner of the election, but according to Tchiroma and his supporters say the results were manipulated.
Tchiroma...protected by loyal army.