Paul Biya, the world’s oldest president, has ruled Cameroon for over 40 years, and at 92, he shows no signs of stepping down. Despite growing concerns over his health, repression of opposition voices, and worsening economic conditions, Biya remains in firm control. With presidential elections scheduled for October, many believe he will once again force his way to victory.
Government officials have refused to confirm whether Biya will run again. “The president has already said that he will make known whether or not he is a candidate in this election at the appropriate time,” said government spokesman Rene Emmanuel Sadi. However, Cameroon’s political system is so rigged in Biya’s favour that his re-election is a foregone conclusion.
Opposition Is Crushed, Critics Silenced
Biya’s rule has been marked by brutal crackdowns on dissent. In 2018, following a contested election, the government intensified its repression, arresting opposition figures, jailing activists, and shutting down protests. The country’s human rights record continues to draw international condemnation, but Biya remains unfazed.
“My determination to serve you remains intact and is strengthened on a daily basis, given the scale of the challenges we face,” Biya declared in his end-of-year address, ignoring growing public frustration.
Even in the face of widespread discontent, traditional rulers and political elites continue to pledge loyalty to the aging leader. In January, local leaders reaffirmed their “total and unwavering” support for Biya, while government-controlled media portrays him as the only person capable of leading Cameroon.
Corruption, Violence, and Economic Decline
Under Biya’s rule, Cameroon has been plagued by corruption, economic hardship, and deadly conflicts. Catholic bishops recently condemned the government for failing to tackle unemployment, poverty, and widespread insecurity.
“In recent times, the anxieties of the vast majority of Cameroonians have increasingly transformed into cries of distress in the face of the misery they are experiencing and the degradation of our beautiful country,” they said.
Cameroon continues to battle Islamist insurgencies in the north, while a separatist conflict in the English-speaking regions has raged since 2016. The government’s failure to address these crises has only deepened public frustration.
Biya, however, remains defiant. In a weak, raspy voice, he recently warned against “irresponsible” individuals who seek to destabilize the country. Meanwhile, his government remains in disarray, four ministerial positions remain unfilled since 2019, and multiple parliamentary seats remain vacant following the deaths of lawmakers.
As Cameroon prepares for another election, the question remains: how much longer will Biya cling to power?
