BRUSSELS, Oct 28 (KUNA) -- The EU expressed deep concern on Tuesday over the violent suppression of protests that erupted in Cameroon following the announcement of the presidential election results, calling on the authorities to release all those arbitrarily detained since the demonstrations began.
In a press statement, EU Spokesperson Anouar El Anouni said that the violence accompanying President Paul Biya's victory for an eighth term in office raised concerns, noting that at least four people were shot dead during clashes that broke out in several Cameroonian cities following the result announcement on 27 October.
The statement affirmed that the EU, as a long-standing partner of Cameroon, "stresses the importance of ensuring the safety and physical integrity of all political actors in this process," urging the Cameroonian authorities to hold perpetrators of violence accountable, and ensure transparency, and justice.
The EU further called on all political and social actors in Cameroon to "maintain restraint and refrain from any action that may further exacerbate tensions," while encouraging constructive dialogue aimed at preserving stability, national cohesion, and upholding democratic values and human rights. (end) arn.res