At 92, Cameroon’s President Paul Biya — the world’s oldest head of state — has announced he will seek re-election this October, aiming to extend his 43-year rule.
“Rest assured that my determination to serve you matches the urgency of the challenges we face,” Biya posted on X, saying his decision followed “numerous and insistent” calls from across Cameroon and the diaspora.
Biya has ruled since 1982 and has never lost an election. If re-elected for another seven-year term, he could remain president until nearly 100. His long rule has faced growing criticism, including allegations of corruption and poor governance. Questions about his health intensified after he vanished from public view for over six weeks last year, sparking rumours.
Although many expected his candidacy, Sunday’s post was the first formal confirmation.
Inside and outside Cameroon, pressure has mounted for Biya to step aside. Human rights lawyer Felix Agbor Nkongho argued the nation deserves leadership reflecting the people's hopes rather than “one that clings to power.” Local paper Le Messager captured the frustration with the headline: “We are finished.”
Biya recently lost key northern allies, including former Prime Minister Bello Bouba Maigari and ex-minister Issa Tchiroma Bakary, who left the ruling coalition to run themselves. Bakary accused Biya’s administration of “breaking” public trust.
Opposition figures like Maurice Kamto, Joshua Osih, Akere Muna, and Cabral Libii have also declared candidacies. Yet Biya remains the ruling party’s de-facto choice, helped by his removal of term limits in 2008.
Reactions on Yaoundé’s streets were mixed. “I thought he would step aside for a new generation,” said local resident Camille Esselem. Others, like public sector worker Ngono Marius, argued Biya “still has much to offer.” Consultant Sylvia Tipa noted she values change but added, “maybe there’s no-one better than [Biya].”