Cameroon president's absence stirs health speculation
The two-month absence of 93-year-old Paul Biya, who is thought to be in Switzerland, has prompted renewed speculation about his health.
Speculation surrounding the health and political stability of Cameroon has intensified due to President Paul Biya's two-month absence from the country. Biya, who is currently 93 years old and the world's oldest president, has not been present since June 7, leading to concerns about his well-being. Reports suggest that Biya may be in Switzerland.
Opposition figures have called for the presidency to be officially declared vacant due to Biya's prolonged absence. However, Biya's aides have refuted these claims, stating that he is capable of governing from abroad. Communication Minister René Emmanuel Sadi told RFI that Biya's return is imminent, but declined to provide a specific date, asserting it is not his place to announce such information.
Biya has been the leader of Cameroon since 1982 and is constitutionally allowed to remain in power until he turns 100, after securing an eighth term in October. Despite his long tenure, Biya has managed to maintain control even as neighboring countries like Gabon experienced regime change and other nations such as Chad and the Central African Republic grapple with their own political and militant challenges.
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