Former All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain and political activist Timi Frank has criticised the declaration of Paul Biya as the winner of Cameroon’s presidential election, calling for international scrutiny and urging the African Union and United Nations to uphold democratic standards in the region.

In a statement issued in Abuja, Frank, who described the development as “a setback for democracy in Africa,” said the outcome of the election and the manner of its announcement have raised serious questions about electoral transparency and democratic integrity in the Central African nation.

He noted that the reported unrest following the announcement of results reflected widespread discontent among the Cameroonian population.

According to him, the international community must not ignore allegations of irregularities and human rights violations linked to the post-election situation.

Frank, who also serves as the United Liberation Movement for West Papua (ULMWP) Ambassador to East Africa and the Middle East, expressed concern over reports of violence against protesters. He urged the United Nations (UN) and the International Criminal Court (ICC) to investigate alleged cases of excessive force and ensure accountability in line with international law.

“The world must not stand by while democracy in Cameroon faces such severe strain,” he said, adding that “those responsible for any unlawful use of force against civilians must be held accountable.”

Frank also criticised what he described as the African Union’s muted response to the crisis, arguing that silence in the face of alleged electoral malpractice undermines the AU’s credibility and its commitment to democratic values.

He called on global powers, including the United States, European Union, and United Nations, to consider imposing targeted sanctions on individuals or entities found to have violated electoral or human rights standards.

“The international community must send a clear message that subverting democracy and using violence to suppress dissent carry consequences,” he said.

Frank urged the people of Cameroon to remain peaceful and united while demanding accountability, cautioning that change must be pursued through non-violent means.

“The courage of Cameroonians in defending their democratic rights is commendable. However, it is vital that they continue to do so peacefully,” he added.

He warned that failure by international actors to act decisively could embolden leaders elsewhere on the continent to undermine democracy without fear of consequence.

“The situation in Cameroon is a test of global resolve to defend democratic principles in Africa,” he said. “The time for decisive, principled action is now.”