Contacted by our editorial team regarding the sociopolitical situation in Cameroon at this crucial moment marked by post-electoral tensions, Algerian pan-Africanist Bekki Benameur wished to address a strong message to the entire Cameroonian political class, and particularly to candidate Issa Tchiroma, urging him to exercise restraint and respect toward the independent national electoral commission, ELECAM.

According to him, any candidate’s participation in an election already represents a mark of confidence in the institution responsible for organizing the vote.

“If candidate Issa Tchiroma took part in the election, this means he recognizes ELECAM’s authority and competence. It would therefore be inconsistent to question the work of this commission before the official publication of results,” he stated.

Related: Cameroon/ Why does confidence in Paul Biya remain a guarantee of peace and continuity?

Bekki Benameur emphasized the need to allow the electoral commission to complete its mission, reminding that only the authorized institution holds the right to announce the final results.

“Cameroon does not need divisions or calls to take to the streets. We must follow the example of President Paul Biya, who maintains silence and respects legal procedures,” he added.

He also warned against any attempt at illegal contestation or calls for popular uprising, believing that such actions would only serve to undermine the country’s stability and compromise peace.

He reminded that in case of disagreement over results, the law provides clear and legitimate channels of appeal for any political formation or candidate; there is no need to call for a popular uprising when contesting a result.

Finally, Mr. Bekki Benameur urged all Cameroonian political actors and citizens to cultivate a spirit of responsibility, tolerance, and dialogue, so that Cameroon remains a model of peaceful democracy in Central Africa.

Félix DIMSEU