Paul Biya reaffirms his candidacy for the October elections, despite growing calls for new leadership and scrutiny over governance.
Cameroon's Paul Biya, 92, Declares Bid for Eighth Presidential Term
Cameroon's Paul Biya, 92, Declares Bid for Eighth Presidential Term
Long-serving President Biya, the world's oldest leader, aims to extend his rule amid rising criticism and health concerns.
In a significant announcement, Cameroon's President Paul Biya, aged 92, declared his intention to pursue an eighth term in the upcoming October elections. This move aims to further extend his unprecedented 43 years in office. Through a post on social media platform X, Biya expressed his resolve to face the "urgent challenges" confronting the nation, attributing his decision to persistent requests from citizens across Cameroon and the diaspora.
His administration has faced substantial backlash, accused of corruption, mismanagement, and an inability to effectively address security concerns within the country. Compounded by worries about his health—exacerbated by a six-week public absence last year that fueled speculation about his well-being—critics have increasingly questioned his capacity to lead.
Although Biya's candidacy was anticipated, it wasn't officially confirmed until his post, marking a decisive moment in Cameroonian politics. Since first stepping into office in 1982, Biya has maintained a perfect electoral winning record. If successful in the upcoming elections, he could potentially serve until nearly a century old.
Calls for his resignation have surfaced from various sectors, advocating for a transition to fresh leadership. This pressure is accompanied by a rift in his traditional support base, notably with high-profile resignations from his party and the emergence of rival candidates, including former ruling coalition members and prominent opposition figures such as Maurice Kamto.
Despite these challenges, supporters of Biya within the Cameroon People's Democratic Movement have rallied for his continued leadership, reinforcing his status as the presumed candidate of the party, especially after the abolition of presidential term limits in 2008. In light of accusations of electoral irregularities during the 2018 elections, his next campaign is expected to be no less contentious. This unfolding political landscape in Cameroon remains under keen observation as citizens anticipate the October elections amidst ongoing debates over governance and leadership accountability.
