Paul Biya has finally put out a public statement - hours after he was declared winner of the election. Biya said he thanks those who "once again placed their trust" in him. "My first thoughts are with all those who have unnecessarily lost their lives, as well with their families, as a result of the post-election violence," he said.

In 1984, Biya survived a coup attempt by elements of the presidential guard; the episode strengthened his hold on power and was one

Protests flared in several cities after partial results reported by local media showed veteran leader Paul Biya, 92, was on course to win.