Cameroon’s president calls elections for Feb 7

Cameroonian president Paul Biya, who has governed the country since 1982, has declared that legislative and local elections will take place on February 7. This is the first election since Biya was re-elected in disputed polls last year. At 93 years old, Biya is the world's oldest head of state. His re-election faced opposition and resulted in violent demonstrations that were harshly suppressed by authorities.

The upcoming polls unfold in a tense political climate characterized by the oppression of the opposition and the stagnation of those in power at the top of the state. The decision to hold the elections was announced through a decree broadcast on public radio, following two previous postponements. Additionally, Cameroon is anticipating a government reshuffle that was announced nearly a year ago, as well as the designation of a vice-president, a role reintroduced by a constitutional reform in April, who would potentially succeed Biya in the event of his demise.

Speculation about Biya's health and his capacity to lead the nation has intensified due to his frequent travels abroad. In late August, Biya returned to Yaounde after an absence of over two months in Geneva, Switzerland, which sparked significant criticism from the opposition. Last month, the authorities banned the Cameroon National Salvation Front (FSNC), the party of the defeated opposition presidential candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary.

Bakary subsequently sought refuge in The Gambia, proclaiming himself the election victor and urging supporters to defend his claim, leading to protests.