US Congressman urges Constitutional Council to respect ballot box verdict.

In his statement, published few days to Monday’s proclamation of the results of the October 12 poll, Congressman Jackson called for restraint, transparency, and respect for the will of the Cameroonian people.

“I commend the people of Cameroon for their continued commitment to democracy, as demonstrated by their participation in the recent presidential election,” he stated. 

The lawmaker explained that: “The United States’ longstanding partnership with Cameroon is rooted in shared values, including respect for democratic governance, the rule of law, and human rights”.

However, the Congressman voiced concerns over reports of limited political freedoms, media restrictions, and voter disenfranchisement in conflict-affected Regions in Cameroon. 

“These irregularities could undermine confidence in the electoral process,” he noted.

Jackson then urged Cameroon’s judiciary, and the Constitutional Council to uphold full transparency and accountability, and to ensure that the final results reflect “the genuine will of the Cameroonian people”.

“I call on all political actors to exercise restraint, respect due process, and resolve any disputes peacefully through established legal and constitutional mechanisms,” he said. 

The frontline human rights activist insisted that: “Violence or intimidation has no place in a democratic process.”

The Illinois Congressman also reaffirmed his commitment to work with the Government of Cameroon, civil society, the African Union, and international partners to support post-election peacebuilding and dialogue.

He said: “Our collective goal should be to strengthen democratic institutions, promote good governance, and advance peace, stability, and respect for human rights for all Cameroonians”.

Congressman Jackson, it should be said, represents Illinois' First Congressional District with a legacy rooted in activism and achievement. 

Born to civil rights leaders, Rev Jesse Jackson and Jacqueline Jackson, he inherited a profound commitment to justice and has translated that heritage into decades of impactful work for marginalized and underserved communities.

A lifelong advocate for equity, Congressman Jackson has consistently used his voice and platform to champion civil rights and social reform. 

He cosponsored a resolution stating that the United States has a moral and legal obligation to provide reparations for the crime of enslavement of Africans and its lasting harm on the lives of millions of Black people in the United States. 

As the national spokesman for the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, Congressman Jackson has been a powerful force in the fight for justice. 

His relentless advocacy has elevated national consciousness about wrongful convictions and juvenile injustice, leading to the exoneration and public vindication of the wrongly imprisoned, including Darrell Cannon, Oscar Walden, and Johnnie Lee Savory. 

The effort has led him to support H.R.4633, the Federal Death Penalty Prohibition Act, and H.R.3344, the Justice for Incarcerated Moms Act, further demonstrates his commitment to justice and equality, inspiring the audience with his leadership.

Congressman Jackson also took part in historic international human rights efforts, helping to secure the release of American Navy Lieutenant Robert Goodman through negotiations with Syrian President Hafez al-Assad and 22 Americans detained in Cuba through talks with Fidel Castro. 

In Chicago, Congressman Jackson has emerged as a steadfast advocate for public education. He has spearheaded community hearings and civic education campaigns to resist the wave of school closures, ensuring that educational access is preserved in vulnerable neighborhoods. 

He supported H.R. 433, the Department of Education Protection Act to prohibit funds made available to the Department of Education by previous Appropriations Acts from being used for any activity relating to implementing a reorganisation of the Department.  

He also believes that Black History should be taught in all schools. He supported H.R.1359 - Black History Matters Act, which would direct the National Museum of African American History and Culture to study and report on Black history education in public elementary and secondary schools.

This story was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3604 of Friday October 24, 2025