Gambia has confirmed that it is providing temporary refuge to Cameroonian opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary, who fled his home country following violent unrest triggered by a disputed presidential election.
The Gambian Ministry of Information who disclosed on Sunday in a statement, said Tchiroma arrived in Banjul on November 7 and is being hosted strictly on humanitarian grounds to ensure his personal safety.
The government added that it is consulting with regional partners, including Nigeria, to support efforts aimed at achieving a peaceful and negotiated resolution to Cameroon’s escalating political crisis.
Tchiroma’s spokesperson, Alice Nkom, also confirmed his presence in Gambia and reiterated the opposition leader’s claim that he won Cameroon’s October 12 presidential election. Official results declared 92-year-old President Paul Biya—already the world’s oldest sitting head of state—victorious, earning an eighth term in office.
Cameroon’s opposition parties have rejected the results, alleging widespread irregularities and insisting the vote lacked transparency and credibility. Tchiroma has publicly urged citizens not to accept the official announcement.
The Cameroonian government has accused Tchiroma of inciting unrest, alleging that he made “repeated calls for insurrection.” Authorities say legal proceedings will be initiated against him.
Following the election results, violent protests erupted across several opposition strongholds, including Douala, Maroua, and Garoua. While the government reports 16 deaths, opposition groups and human rights organisations estimate the death toll to exceed 55.
President Biya, who has ruled Cameroon since 1982, remains in power largely due to a constitutional amendment that abolished term limits. His long absences from public view and recurring questions about his health have fueled further political tensions, as key allies increasingly manage state affairs.
