Speculation regarding the health and whereabouts of Cameroon’s 91-year-old President Paul Biya has intensified throughout Africa this week. Following his attendance at the China-Africa summit in early September, many were not surprised by his absence from the recent UN General Assembly. However, when he also missed the French-speaking countries summit in Viller Cotterêts, near Paris, rumors escalated, especially given that he had not appeared in public for nearly a month.
Cameroon’s ambassador in France reassured the public that Biya is “in good health” and currently residing in Geneva, a common retreat for him. Yet, other reports indicated he might be recuperating under medical supervision after a demanding diplomatic schedule. As Africa’s oldest head of state and the second longest-serving leader, speculation surrounding his condition has become a focal point in media and political discussions.
In response to the swirling rumors, government spokesman René Sadi formally denied the claims, stating that the president will return home “in the next few days.” The head of Biya’s private office has also asserted that he is “in excellent health.”
As a critical nation linking landlocked Chad and the Central African Republic, Cameroon faces several challenges, including managing jihadist violence near Lake Chad and ongoing unrest in its English-speaking regions. Biya’s leadership style is unique, often avoiding the spotlight while delegating day-to-day governmental responsibilities, leading some to characterize him as an enigmatic president.
Historically, Biya’s unexplained absences from public scrutiny have drawn conjecture, including rumors of his death, stemming from these periods of silence. Nonetheless, this low-profile approach contrasts sharply with his political maneuvers that secured his presidency in 1982, a strategic rise that has allowed him to maintain authority amidst waves of reform across Africa.
With his current term ending in November 2025, there are increasing calls from his supporters for him to seek re-election, while many critics argue it’s time for a generational shift in leadership to effectively address the nation’s pressing issues. Calls for reform have grown louder since protests erupted in 2016 over English language rights, highlighting a national discontent that requires decisive action.
Biya’s administration has attempted reforms aimed at decentralizing power and addressing grievances, but implementations have often been slow. Some citizens appreciate his restrained leadership style, viewing him as a symbolic figure rather than an involved decision-maker.
In recent appearances, Biya has engaged in significant events, such as a commemorative address in France. Despite his frequent absences from the capital, he remains integral to key political decisions in Cameroon.
As discussions concerning potential successors arise, the current political landscape in Africa remains volatile, with rising disillusionment among younger populations. Observers note that Biya and his inner circle must read the pulse of public sentiment carefully to navigate the complexities of power retention in a rapidly changing continent, learning from the experiences of neighboring leaders who faced significant backlash for attempting to cling to power amid declining public support.
