Paul Biya, Cameroon’s undefeated ruler for 44 years, returns after long absence

Cameroon's long-standing President, Paul Biya, who has been in office for 44 years, has returned to the country after an extended absence of more than two months. At the age of 93, Biya is the world's oldest serving head of state. He arrived in Yaounde from Geneva, where he had been staying since June 7 for a "short private stay".

Upon his arrival, Biya was greeted by his first lady, Chantal Biya, and supporters waving from a car as they made their way to the presidential palace. Biya's recent trip to Geneva has sparked intense debate, with some criticizing his ability to rule after such a prolonged absence. Despite his frequent health concerns and frequent stays in Geneva, the government firmly denied any deterioration in Biya's health after his latest trip.

The unusually long duration of Biya's absence has led to accusations of an "institutional vacuum" and a country operating on "autopilot", with opposition parties demanding a new government and vice-president. The appointment of a new administration has been pending for months. Biya, who has ruled Cameroon since 1982, has been known for his ruthless suppression of political and armed opposition.

He has been accused of spending excessive amounts of public money on his private trips abroad, with an international consortium estimating he had spent four and a half years on such trips at a cost of US$65 million. Biya's leadership has drawn criticism from the United Nations and Western capitals, with concerns over his control over key officials and the rampant corruption within the country.