Tens of thousands of enthusiastic supporters packed the esplanade behind Douala’s Omnisports Stadium on Sunday, braving heavy rain and hours of waiting to hear from presidential candidate and former minister Issa Tchiroma Bakary.
The crowd, undeterred by the weather or the long delay, pledged their support for Tchiroma, the Cameroon National Salvation Front’s candidate in the upcoming October 12 election. “He is deeply loved by the Cameroonian people. I don’t think we’ve ever seen a crowd like this,” said supporter Mohamadou Hadji. “This is proof of the people’s commitment to Issa Tchiroma Bakary. We promise him a 100% victory.”
Tchiroma arrived in Douala to a hero’s welcome, having just concluded rallies in the English-speaking cities of Buea and Limbé. Along the way, he addressed supporters who had lined the route to greet him.
In a bold speech, Tchiroma issued a direct challenge to incumbent President Paul Biya, urging him to concede defeat on election night. “You will call your opponent, chosen by the people, and say, ‘Mr. President, I concede defeat. Congratulations. Today, you enter history,’” he declared to roaring applause.
Supporters described the rally as a historic moment, but emphasized the importance of vigilance at the polls. “We must all vote for the same person, monitor our votes, and verify our ballots,” said Taddoum Moïse. “On the evening of October 12, we will proclaim our own victory and see President Tchiroma take office.”
During his address, Tchiroma also condemned alleged threats from the current administration and issued a stern warning to the territorial administration, electoral commission, and Constitutional Council. He vowed that the people would demand justice and recognition of their choice “by any means necessary” if electoral fraud occurred.
