- Paul Biya, Cameroon’s 92 year old president, insists on contesting for an eighth term despite pressure to step aside.
- Opposition to Paul Biya has grown, with criticism from the Catholic Church, defectors from his cabinet, and rising voices from the youth.
- Concerns about Paul Biya’s health continue after years of speculation, especially following his 42 day disappearance from public view.
- Despite these challenges, Paul Biya remains powerful due to patronage, military loyalty, and a fragmented opposition in Cameroon.
President Paul Biya of Cameroon has confirmed he will seek an eighth term in office, continuing his rule that began in 1982.
At 92 years old, Biya is Africa’s longest-serving president, and his decision comes despite unprecedented pressure from political leaders, religious figures, and even his own family.
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The wave of dissent began last Christmas when Catholic Archbishop Samuel Kleda said it was “not realistic” for Biya to continue ruling at his age. Soon after, two senior cabinet members from the northern region defected, openly questioning his ability to lead.
Adding to the storm, Biya’s 27 year old daughter Brenda released a viral TikTok video urging Cameroonians to vote him out, accusing her father of making “too many people suffer.” Though she later retracted the post, it sparked widespread debate and gave further momentum to opposition groups.
Analysts note that Biya’s ability to remain in power lies in a deeply entrenched system of patronage, loyalty from the military, weak state institutions, and a divided opposition. His track record includes surviving a 1984 coup attempt, abolishing presidential term limits in 2008, and winning elections in 2011 and 2018 that were marred by fraud allegations.
Concerns over Biya’s health have fueled calls for change. His 42 day disappearance from the public eye last year triggered rumours that the government dismissed as “pure fantasy.” Still, many citizens question whether he can handle another term.
As the October 12 polls approach, Cameroon faces a decisive moment in its political history, with Paul Biya once again at the centre of national and international attention.
