In a solemn and impassioned address to the nation, Hiram Samuel Lyodi, October 12, presidential candidate, has called on Cameroonians to remain calm and united as tensions mount across the country following the disputed results of the 2025 presidential election.
Speaking to citizens from across the national territory and the diaspora, Lyodi began his message with a note of gratitude, recalling that nearly five million Cameroonians had “responded positively to the call to cast their vote” on October 12.
He described that day as a moment of collective hope, when citizens, through the ballot box, expressed their shared desire for change. Yet, the optimism that surrounded the election quickly gave way to confusion and grief.
On October 27, the Constitutional Council proclaimed what it termed the final and unappealable results of the election. The announcement, however, was met with anger and disbelief by large sections of the population.
Since then, demonstrations have erupted across several major cities, including Douala and Yaoundé, as well as Bafoussam, Garoua, Maroua, Bertoua, Ngaoundéré, and Buea, leaving behind scenes of unrest, mourning, and tragedy.
“Our streets have been set ablaze, our cities are mourning, and sons and daughters of Cameroon are unjustly losing their lives,” Lyodi said, his voice carrying both sorrow and defiance. “Would people who freely elected a candidate, in the same breath, choose to die in the streets, protesting their own victory?” he asked, suggesting that the post-election violence reflects a deep fracture between the will of the people and the official results.
Lyodi accused the current regime of betraying its promises of accountability, moral integrity, and national renewal. He warned that another seven years under an administration that “has failed to uphold its commitments” would jeopardize the future of an entire generation. Yet, his message was also one of restraint and humanity.
While denouncing the repression of peaceful demonstrators by security forces, he equally condemned the acts of vandalism committed by what he called a “minority,” whose actions, he said, “betray the spirit of these mobilizations.”
“I deplore the repressive violence exerted by some security forces in response to the legitimate aspirations of citizens,” he declared, expressing “sincere and fraternal compassion” for the bereaved families and those who have suffered injuries.
At the same time, Lyodi took care to commend members of the defence and security forces who have acted with dignity and professionalism, even at the risk of their own safety, saying their conduct honours their oath of loyalty to the Republic.
Turning his attention to the government, Lyodi urged leaders to act with a sense of responsibility and justice, warning that the nation’s fate depends on their next decisions.
He called for the immediate and transparent publication of the 31,653 record sheets used to determine the election results, and demanded an end to police brutality, arbitrary arrests, and extrajudicial killings.
He further insisted on the release of all political and opinion prisoners, as well as the full protection of freedom of expression and peaceful protest which he described as “the only sustainable path out of this post-electoral crisis.”
In closing, Lyodi reaffirmed his commitment to the Cameroonian people, whom he described as the “only legitimate sovereign.” He vowed to continue standing by them, emphasizing that political leaders must always serve the people, never undermine them.
“Our duty as political leaders is to serve you, never to undermine you,” he said, invoking both faith and heritage as he concluded. “May God and our ancestors watch over Cameroon.”
Comments
Post a Comment