After months of mounting speculation surrounding his political intentions, President Paul Biya of Cameroon has officially declared his candidacy for another term in office. In a message posted to social media, the 92-year-old leader reaffirmed his desire to remain in power, stating his commitment to the nation’s future and assuring citizens that “the best is yet to come.”
Having ruled Cameroon for over four decades, President Biya is currently the second longest-serving head of state in Africa. His decision to extend his time in office has reignited criticism from opposition leaders and human rights organizations. One prominent activist described the move as emblematic of “Cameroon’s stalled political transition,” stressing the country’s “urgent need of democratic change and accountable leadership.”
President Biya’s last electoral victory in 2018 came with over 70 percent of the vote, but the outcome was mired in controversy. That election was plagued by widespread allegations of electoral fraud, voter apathy, and episodes of violence.
Meanwhile, the country’s Anglophone regions remain in turmoil due to a long-standing separatist conflict. This unrest has disrupted the education of thousands of children and triggered violent confrontations between government forces and armed separatist groups.
Throughout his tenure, Biya has been dogged by accusations of entrenched corruption and a consistent failure to respond to pressing national issues. His prolonged absences from the country—often for medical treatment abroad—have fueled ongoing concerns about his health and capacity to lead.
As Cameroon prepares for its next electoral cycle, President Biya’s bid for re-election is poised to deepen existing divisions and provoke intense debate over the country’s democratic future.
