Cameroonian President Paul Biya, 92, has officially declared his candidacy for the upcoming presidential election set for October, announcing the decision via his official account on X (formerly Twitter). If elected, he would enter an eighth term, extending his rule to over four decades.
“I am a candidate in the presidential election, and I assure the nation of my continued determination to serve it,” his post read.
The announcement ends weeks of speculation. While the Minister of Education had suggested that the ruling party’s statutes confirm Biya’s eligibility to run, the government’s spokesperson maintained that “all options remain on the table.”
During Biya’s lengthy tenure, Cameroon has faced persistent economic and security challenges, particularly in the restive Anglophone regions. Opposition parties have voiced doubts about his health and fitness to lead, especially given his frequent medical trips abroad.
If re-elected, Biya would remain in office until the age of 100. He has been in power since 1982, succeeding Ahmadou Ahidjo, after previously serving as Prime Minister.
