In an announcement that has sparked both support and skepticism, Cameroon's President Paul Biya, the world's oldest leader at 92 years old, declared his intention to seek re-election in October. Biya shared his decision on X, indicating that the call for his continued leadership came from citizens across Cameroon and the diaspora, stating, "Rest assured that my determination to serve you matches the urgency of the challenges we face."
Biya's presidency has been marred by allegations of corruption, governance failures, and security dilemmas. His recent absences from the public eye raised concerns about his health, with speculation circulating about his well-being after a notable six-week hiatus last year.
Having ruled since 1982 and never losing an election, Biya's candidacy is not surprising but signals his intent to remain in power potentially until he approaches 100 years of age. Critics both within and outside Cameroon are increasingly urging him to step down and create space for new leadership amid his waning popularity.
The announcement comes in the wake of political fractures within his ruling coalition, with prominent figures such as Issa Tchiroma Bakary and former Prime Minister Bello Bouba Maigari breaking away to challenge his leadership. Tchiroma criticized the current administration for having eroded public trust and has decided to run for office as part of a rival party.
Multiple opposition candidates have also stepped forward, including 2018 election runner-up Maurice Kamto and others like Joshua Osih and Akere Muna, intensifying the competition for the presidency. Nevertheless, a faction of the Cameroon People's Democratic Movement, Biya's governing party, has expressed a strong desire for him to continue his leadership.
In 2008, Biya eradicated term limits, giving him the ability to seek the presidency indefinitely. His last election victory in 2018 garnered over 71% of the votes, although opposition groups claimed the electoral process was tainted by significant irregularities. As Biya moves forward in his campaign, Cameroon's political landscape remains charged with both anticipation and apprehension regarding the future of governance in the nation.
Biya's presidency has been marred by allegations of corruption, governance failures, and security dilemmas. His recent absences from the public eye raised concerns about his health, with speculation circulating about his well-being after a notable six-week hiatus last year.
Having ruled since 1982 and never losing an election, Biya's candidacy is not surprising but signals his intent to remain in power potentially until he approaches 100 years of age. Critics both within and outside Cameroon are increasingly urging him to step down and create space for new leadership amid his waning popularity.
The announcement comes in the wake of political fractures within his ruling coalition, with prominent figures such as Issa Tchiroma Bakary and former Prime Minister Bello Bouba Maigari breaking away to challenge his leadership. Tchiroma criticized the current administration for having eroded public trust and has decided to run for office as part of a rival party.
Multiple opposition candidates have also stepped forward, including 2018 election runner-up Maurice Kamto and others like Joshua Osih and Akere Muna, intensifying the competition for the presidency. Nevertheless, a faction of the Cameroon People's Democratic Movement, Biya's governing party, has expressed a strong desire for him to continue his leadership.
In 2008, Biya eradicated term limits, giving him the ability to seek the presidency indefinitely. His last election victory in 2018 garnered over 71% of the votes, although opposition groups claimed the electoral process was tainted by significant irregularities. As Biya moves forward in his campaign, Cameroon's political landscape remains charged with both anticipation and apprehension regarding the future of governance in the nation.
