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The nation's Interior Minister the interior minister has stated that political opponent Tchiroma Bakary will be prosecuted over accusations that he provoked "violent post-election demonstrations".

No fewer than four demonstrators have been lost their lives during skirmishes between security forces and opposition supporters since the presidential election on 12 October, with President Paul Biya, aged 92 winning an eighth presidential mandate.

Issa Tchiroma asserts that he was the true winner, a claim disputed by the incumbent party, the ruling CPDM.

Forceful measures by security personnel on demonstrators have concerned the world leaders, with the United Nations, AU and European Union urging moderation.

Minister's Accusations

Earlier this week, the interior minister alleged Tchiroma Bakary of planning what he referred to as "unlawful" protests causing the loss of lives, and also criticised him for claiming win in the presidential race.

He added that Tchiroma Bakary's "co-conspirators involved in an subversive plot" will also be prosecuted.

Poll Figures

Paul Biya, who took control in 1982 and is now the world's oldest head of state, secured the 12 October vote with a majority of the votes, compared to a significant minority for Tchiroma Bakary, according to the electoral authority.

Challenger's Position

Issa Tchiroma is yet to respond to the official announcement to try him, but he had before stated that he rejected a stolen vote - and that he was fearless of being arrested.

When results were announced, he claimed that armed men shot on demonstrators present near his residence in Garoua, causing the death of at least 2 civilians.

Inquiry Launched

Recently, the interior minister announced that an investigation would be initiated into clashes before and after the announcement of the election results.

"Throughout the violence, some of the perpetrators were killed," he said, without providing a exact count of protesters who have been lost their lives in the clashes.

Nji noted that a number of members of the security forces also suffered significant wounds.

Current Situation

While Nji asserted the state of affairs nationwide was now stable, demonstrators are still demonstrating in certain regions of the nation, especially in urban centers, where demonstrators mounted barricades on Tuesday, and burnt tyres on the thoroughfares.

Observers caution that the election-related unrest could push the country into a leadership vacuum.