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Cameroon's Minister of the Interior Paul Atanga Nji has stated that political opponent Issa Tchiroma Bakary will face legal action over claims that he instigated "violent post-election demonstrations".

A minimum of 4 demonstrators have been lost their lives during skirmishes between security forces and demonstrators since the presidential election on October 12, with President Paul Biya, aged 92 winning an eighth term in office.

The opposition leader insists that he was the true winner, a assertion dismissed by Biya's ruling party, the Cameroon People's Democratic Movement (CPDM).

Violent crackdowns by police and security officers on protesters have worried the international community, with the UN, African Union and European Union urging moderation.

Minister's Allegations

On Tuesday, Nji charged Tchiroma Bakary of coordinating what he referred to as "illegal" protests leading to the loss of lives, and also condemned him for declaring victory in the election.

He further stated that the opposition leader's "accomplices involved in an insurrectionary plan" will also face legal action.

Vote Outcome

The president, who assumed office in the early 80s and is now the most elderly national leader, secured the October 12 presidential election with 53.7% of the vote, compared to 35.2% for the challenger, according to Cameroon's Constitutional Council.

Leader's Stance

Issa Tchiroma is remains silent to the government's decision to prosecute him, but he had before announced that he rejected a fraudulent outcome - and that he was undaunted of being detained.

Following the vote count, he reported that security forces shot on protesters gathered near his home in the city of Garoua, causing the death of at least 2 civilians.

Investigation Launched

Recently, the government official announced that an investigation would be initiated into clashes prior to and following the publication of the vote outcome.

"During these attacks, some of the individuals involved died," he said, without providing a exact count of demonstrators who have been lost their lives in the confrontations.

The minister added that a number of members of the law enforcement also suffered major harm.

Current Situation

Although Nji asserted the condition throughout Cameroon was now under control, demonstrators continue to protest in some parts of the country, especially in Douala and Garoua, where protesters set up barricades on that day, and burnt tyres on the streets.

Experts alert that the political turmoil could lead the nation into a governmental instability.