Cameroon’s President Paul Biya, the world’s oldest head of state, celebrates his 92nd birthday on Thursday, extending his record as one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders.
However, uncertainty looms over whether he will seek another term in office, with elections set for October.
Despite his silence on the matter, many—including the fractured opposition—believe Biya will pursue an eighth term.
Having first assumed power in 1982, his leadership has been defined by tight political control, with dissent frequently met with arrests and repression, according to human rights groups.
Government spokesman and Communication Minister Rene Emmanuel Sadi reiterated last month that Biya would announce his decision on candidacy “at the appropriate time.”
Biya’s health has been a subject of speculation, especially after he disappeared from public view for several weeks last year.
Authorities later confirmed he had been in Switzerland, a frequent destination for his private retreats.
Upon his return in October, he has made only a handful of public appearances, mostly confined to official photographs and state broadcasts.
Despite these concerns, calls for his continued leadership persist. In his end-of-year speech, Biya assured the nation of his unwavering commitment, highlighting what he described as “massive support” for his presidency. Traditional leaders and loyalists on social media have also voiced their backing, with some claiming he remains fit for more years in office.
Biya’s rule has been marred by accusations of human rights violations, particularly following the disputed 2018 elections that saw increased political crackdowns.
Critics, including Catholic bishops, have warned of growing hardship, corruption, unemployment, and violent conflicts plaguing the country.
Since 2009, Cameroon’s Far North region has suffered attacks from Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgents, while separatist conflicts in the English-speaking western regions have fueled instability since 2016.
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Despite these challenges, Biya maintains that Cameroon has made “tremendous progress” under his leadership. In a recent speech, he urged young people to reject “the sirens of chaos” and focus on the country’s future.
As the election draws nearer, Biya’s prolonged silence on his political intentions continues to fuel speculation.
Yet, in a country where political opposition remains weak and suppressed, many believe the veteran leader—regardless of health concerns—will once again be on the ballot.