President Paul Biya: Commitment or Controversy?

As Cameroon gears up for its presidential election on October 12, a familiar figure has resurfaced in the headlines. President Paul Biya, the world’s oldest serving head of state at 92, has publicly affirmed his intention to seek re-election. The announcement, made via a post on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, has reignited discussions about his lengthy tenure and the implications it holds for the future of the nation.

Biya first stepped into leadership in 1982, after the resignation of his predecessor Ahmadou Ahidjo, and has since maintained his position with an extensive reign that surpasses four decades. This enduring rule raises many questions: How has he managed to stay in power for so long? What does this mean for democracy in Cameroon?

“Rest assured that my determination to serve you matches the urgency of the challenges we face,” Biya stated, a reaffirmation of his commitment to a nation grappling with various crises. But, can words alone suffice? The citizens of Cameroon are looking for actions that reveal true dedication, not merely rhetoric.

Biya’s announcement came as he cited the “numerous and insistent” calls from citizens within Cameroon and the diaspora urging him to continue his leadership. While some supporters believe he provides a sense of stability, critics argue that his administration has stifled economic growth and limited democratic freedoms. Indeed, the sentiment within Cameroon is far from uniform. What does it say about a nation when its leadership remains unchanged for decades, possibly hindering progress?

The narrative surrounding Biya’s administration is complex. It often faces allegations of corruption, mismanagement, and a failure to adequately address rising security threats in the region. Are these simply the woes of a long-standing governance, or are they symptomatic of deeper systemic issues? As he embarks on another campaign, these mounting concerns are difficult to ignore.

Last year, compounded worries about Biya’s health emerged when he mysteriously vanished from public view for 42 days. This absence sparked speculation and raised eyebrows. On his return in October, the government denied any health difficulties, claiming his well-being was a matter of national security. Yet, should a leader’s health be shrouded in secrecy? Such responses only fuel speculation and concern among the populace.

Though Biya’s physical presence may be erratic, his grip on power remains substantial. Much of the daily governance is reported to be conducted by his chief of staff. In an arguably strategic move, he eliminated constitutional term limits in 2008, allowing for the possibility of indefinite re-election. He secured over 71% of the votes in the 2018 election amid allegations of widespread electoral fraud. Such electoral narratives often create rifts between the government and its citizens—what trust can the populace place in a system perceived as fundamentally flawed?

As the world watches, Sunday’s proclamation of Biya’s candidacy promises to rekindle discussion about the direction of leadership in this Central African nation. How will this affect the political dynamics within Cameroon? And what impact will it have on the international stage where perceptions of governance and democracy are closely scrutinized?

Emergence of Opposition

With Biya’s re-election bid becoming a focal point, several notable opposition figures are stepping forward for the October 2025 ballots. Among them, Maurice Kamto of the Cameroon Renaissance Movement (CRM)—who was the runner-up in the 2018 election—is rallying his supporters. Alongside him, Joshua Osih, the leader of the Social Democratic Front (SDF), and notable lawyer Akere Muna, an anti-corruption advocate, are also vying for public attention. Cabral Libii from the Cameroon Party for National Reconciliation (PCRN) is yet another contender, adding to the vibrant yet tense political landscape.

These emerging voices pose crucial questions: Can they galvanize enough support to challenge Biya’s long-standing reign? Will their involvement in the election lead to a more vibrant democratic process or simply reinforce existing divides?

Engaging with opposition not only signifies a movement toward democratization but also reflects the aspirations and frustrations of a populace eager for change. In a nation marked by years of steady leadership and mounting challenges, what kind of future are these candidates envisioning for Cameroon?

As voters prepare to head to the polls, they will undoubtedly weigh their choices carefully—balancing the known against the uncertain. For some, the stability offered by Biya’s administration is preferable to the unpredictability that change may bring. For others, the call for renewal and reform is too potent to ignore. How this dynamic unfolds will undoubtedly shape the narrative of Cameroon’s future.

The journey ahead is filled with questions, challenges, and perhaps, opportunities. As the election date approaches, both supporters and critics of Biya are poised to make their voices heard, making this a pivotal moment in the country’s ongoing story.

Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International–Monitoring