Cameroon’s President Paul Biya, aged 92, has declared his intention to run for another seven-year term, potentially allowing him to govern until he is nearly 100. Having been in power since 1982, Biya has never lost an election, although his electoral victories have frequently been challenged by opposition parties, who cite concerns over the legitimacy of the voting process. In the 2018 election, Biya was declared the winner with over 71% of the vote, despite allegations of significant electoral irregularities.
Biya’s health has raised concerns, particularly after he disappeared from public view for over six weeks last year, which sparked death rumors that were later debunked. In 2008, he abolished presidential term limits, enabling him to run indefinitely. His recent announcement to seek re-election comes amid instability in his administration, marked by the resignation of two long-time allies. This move is likely to intensify discussions about democratic governance and leadership longevity in Cameroon and beyond.
