Cameroon on Tuesday said opposition figure Anicet Ekane died of natural causes after being arrested following a presidential election that returned Paul Biya to power for an eighth term.

The left-wing politician was arrested in the economic capital Douala on October 24 – the day before the poll results were published – for allegedly fomenting protests, according to the Cameroonian government.

A statement from the defence ministry read out on public radio on Tuesday said a forensic report into the 74-year-old's death in custody "concluded that the death was natural" and showed "a total absence of traumatic lesions."

It said "serious pathologies... claimed the life of a patient with a heavy medical history."

Government hands over Ekane's body

Ekane was arrested with other leaders who had publicly supported opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary's claim of victory.

Ekane had led the African Movement for the New Independence of Cameroon (Manidem) party for several years.

Ekane's body was handed over to his family on Monday, according to state TV.

Biya was re-elected for seven years in the October 2025 election.

Ex-minister-turned Biya's opponent

Bakary, a former minister who crossed over to the opposition, caused a stir by mobilising young people to support him.

He declared himself the poll winner, sparking protests, which were contained by the government.