Cameroon’s 92-year-old President Paul Biya, the world’s longest-serving head of state, marks his 92nd birthday on Thursday after over 40 years in power. However, he remains silent about his potential candidacy for another term in the upcoming elections later this year.
Despite this, there is widespread belief, including among the fragmented opposition, that Biya, who has been in power since 1982, will seek an eighth term in the October election.
Following a contentious 2018 election, Biya further solidified his autocratic rule, responding to dissent with repression, arrests, and imprisonments, according to human rights organizations.
Government spokesperson Rene Emmanuel Sadi remarked last month that Biya would announce his candidacy “at the appropriate time.”
Biya has not indicated a successor, and discussions about his potential replacement remain a taboo subject.
Former minister Garga Haman Adji remarked in July, “Even if he were lying on a stretcher, candidate Biya will be re-elected.”
Concerns over Biya’s health rose last year when he vanished from public sight for weeks. Rumors swirled about his condition, leading authorities to disclose that he was in Switzerland, where he has often stayed at luxury resorts. The government then prohibited local media from reporting on his health.
Since his return on October 21, Biya’s public appearances have been sparse, limited to a few official photos, a regional summit, and a handful of televised speeches.
As in previous election cycles, many voices continue urging him to seek another term. In his end-of-year speech, Biya expressed his commitment to serve, claiming that his “determination remains intact” and acknowledging “massive support.”
In January, traditional leaders reaffirmed their “total and unwavering” backing for Biya, while some supporters on social media declared he is “still strong” and could serve two more terms.
**Repression and Distress**
Biya and his administration are frequently accused by international human rights organizations of suppressing opposition voices. He was re-elected for a seventh term seven years ago amid widespread allegations of electoral fraud, followed by a crackdown on political dissent.
Few openly demand his resignation, but criticisms are mounting. Catholic bishops have recently voiced concern over the “cries of distress” from the public, citing widespread suffering, corruption, high unemployment, and escalating violence.
Since 2009, northern Cameroon has faced persistent attacks from Boko Haram and ISIS-affiliated ISWAP militants. Meanwhile, violence between armed separatists and security forces has plagued the two English-speaking regions since 2016.
Despite this, Biya praised the “tremendous progress” made in recent years during his last speech, urging young people to reject “the sirens of chaos” from “irresponsible” individuals.
The government has not seen a reshuffle since January 2019, and vacancies left by the deaths of several ministers, lawmakers, and senators remain unfilled.
AFP
