President Paul Biya back in Cameroon after 73 days away
The absence fuelled speculation about the 93-year-old's health and who is really running the country.
Cameroonian President Paul Biya has returned to the country after a 73-day absence that has raised concerns about his health and the running of the nation. Biya, the world's oldest serving head of state at 93, arrived in Yaounde on Thursday from Geneva, where he had been since June 7. He was greeted by his first lady, Chantal Biya, as he left the airport for the presidential palace, where he was met by supporters wearing Biya-themed clothing.
Biya's extended absence has fueled speculation about his health and who is truly governing Cameroon. The opposition has criticized the situation, calling it an "institutional vacuum" and a country running "on autopilot." Biya's re-election in October 2025 to a new eight-year term has sparked protests, which were met with violence.
The authorities reported a few dozen deaths, but the true death toll remains unknown. Should Biya return prematurely, the next in line to lead would be the Senate President, Aboubakary Abdoulaye, until a presidential election can be organized.
Written by urgent.news from Free Malaysia Today's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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