At 92, Paul Biya begins his eighth presidential campaign in Cameroon, pledging stability despite doubts about his health and the country’s electoral fairness.
Cameroon’s president, Paul Biya, aged 92, launched his electoral campaign this week with a rally in the country’s northern region — the first step in his bid for an eighth consecutive term as the world’s oldest sitting head of state.
“I know the problems that trouble you, the unmet expectations that make you doubt the future,” Biya told supporters. “Based on my experience, I assure you these problems are not insurmountable.”
The Far North region, largely Muslim and among the poorest in Cameroon, has suffered repeated attacks and kidnappings by the extremist group Boko Haram.
It also accounts for roughly 20% of the country’s 8.2 million eligible voters, making it a crucial battleground. Two opposition contenders, former Biya allies Bello Bouba Maigari and Issa Tchiroma Bakary, enjoy strong support there.
The rally marked Biya’s first major public appearance after returning from a week-long stay in Switzerland — one of many such trips in recent years for what officials describe as “private visits.” His long absences and secrecy surrounding his health have fueled criticism and raised questions about his fitness to govern.
Over his four decades in power, Cameroon — a Central African nation of nearly 30 million — has grappled with separatist violence in its western regions, persistent corruption, and uneven economic development despite abundant natural resources such as oil and minerals.
According to UN estimates, 43% of Cameroonians live in poverty, lacking access to basic services like education and healthcare.
Political observers say Biya remains the clear favorite, especially after his main opponent, Maurice Kamto, was barred from running in August. With the opposition divided and weakened, few expect a real challenge to Biya’s rule. Cameroon’s elections have long faced accusations of fraud and manipulation.
The national electoral body has been criticized for its close ties to the ruling government, and several officials previously served under Biya.
}In 2008, the two-term limit for presidents was abolished, clearing the way for Biya’s continued dominance and cementing his status as the world’s longest-serving and oldest leader.
