CAMEROON’S 92‑YEAR‑OLD PAUL BIYA RUNS FOR EIGHTH TERM AMID GROWING CRITICISM

Cameroon’s President Paul Biya, aged 92 and the world’s oldest serving head of state, has announced his intention to run for re-election in October, aiming for an eighth consecutive term. Biya, who has ruled since 1982 and saw term limits abolished in 2008, made the announcement in a post on X, citing widespread public encouragement from both domestic and diaspora communities.
Despite never having lost an election—he secured more than 71 % of votes in 2018 amid allegations of ballot rigging—Biya’s prolonged tenure has triggered concerns. Human rights lawyer Felix Agbor Nkongho decried the candidacy, saying Cameroon “deserves leadership that represents the hopes of the people.” Key northern allies, including former minister Issa Tchiroma Bakary and ex–Prime Minister Bello Bouba Maigari, have withdrawn support and declared their own bids, reflecting a fracturing of Biya’s coalition. Civil society groups argue that his advanced age and prolonged rule hinder governance challenges like anti-corruption and security.
On the streets of Yaoundé, residents largely refrained from commenting openly, citing fear of retaliation. Still, some voiced surprising sympathy, saying Biya has contributed to national stability over his decades in power. Public sentiment is divided—but consensus remains rare as Biya seeks yet another term that could carry him close to 100 years old.