EU Urges Cameroon President-Elect To Unite Country

The European Union on Thursday urged Cameroon's president elect, veteran strongman Paul Biya, to unite his country and overcome its troubles following elections.

The Constitutional Council, dominated by Biya loyalists, said on Monday the 85-year-old leader had won 71.3% of votes in the October 7 poll marred by allegations of widespread fraud, low voter turnout, and violence.

EU Urges Cameroon President-Elect To Unite Country

Reacting to the council's announcement four days later, the EU's diplomatic arm, the external action service, issued a mild statement that did not mention the fraud allegations.

"The European Union expects the President-elect to bring together all stakeholders to overcome the challenges facing the country, to the benefit of all Cameroonians," a spokesperson said without mentioning Biya by name.
"While elections were generally held in a peaceful manner, some parts of the population were unable to take part in the vote," the statement said.

"The EU reiterates its concern about the situation in the North-West and South-West regions of the country.