The Gambian government has confirmed the presence of Cameroonian opposition figure Issa Tchiroma Bakary in the country, stating that he is being hosted temporarily on humanitarian grounds. His stay comes amid heightened tensions in Cameroon following the disputed October 12 presidential election.

Tchiroma, 76, who contested the polls and rejected the declared victory of President Paul Biya, arrived in Banjul on November 7. Authorities say his stay does not carry political implications but is strictly humanitarian, given the volatile post-election climate back home.

The veteran politician and former minister has been a vocal critic of the electoral process, arguing that widespread irregularities undermined the credibility of the results. His arrival in The Gambia has drawn regional attention, though local officials maintain that due process and safety considerations guided their decision.

As Cameroon navigates a sensitive political moment, Tchiroma’s temporary refuge in The Gambia underscores the broader West African concern over political stability and the protection of opposition figures in times of national tension.