President Paul Biya back in Cameroon after 73 days away

Cameroonian President Paul Biya returned to his country on Thursday, concluding a 73-day absence that has raised concerns about his health. The world's oldest serving head of state, Biya, 93, had been staying in Geneva since June 7, according to his office's description of a "short private visit". Upon his arrival at Yaoundé airport, Biya waved to supporters gathered to welcome him, some holding signs with his image.

Biya's health has been a topic of speculation, often tied to his frequent trips to Geneva. On June 18, Communication Minister Rene Emmanuel Sadi dismissed reports of Biya's hospitalization in a Geneva clinic. The president's prolonged absence has sparked criticism from the opposition, who decried the "institutional vacuum" and a country running "on autopilot" while the appointment of a new government and vice-president has been delayed for months.

Biya's frequent absences over the past two decades have become a source of frustration for many Cameroonian citizens. Despite his return, his re-election to a new eight-year term in October 2025 led to violent protests, which the authorities claimed resulted in several dozen deaths.