GhArticles.com Every News in Detail
Paul Biya, the world’s oldest serving head of state at 92 years old, has officially announced his candidacy for an eighth presidential term in Cameroon’s upcoming election slated for October 12, 2025.
Biya made the announcement on Sunday via posts on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, writing in both English and French: “I am a candidate in the presidential election. Rest assured that my determination to serve you matches the urgency of the challenges we face.”
If re-elected, Biya could remain in power until he is nearly 100 years old. He has ruled Cameroon since 1982, following the resignation of his predecessor Ahmadou Ahidjo, and has since maintained a tight grip on power abolishing presidential term limits in 2008 and securing his most recent victory in 2018 with over 71% of the vote. That election, however, was widely criticized by opposition parties for alleged irregularities.
Biya’s announcement though long expected comes amid growing concerns over his health and political longevity. He has been largely absent from public life, including a 42-day disappearance last year that fueled speculation about his well-being. While government officials claimed he was healthy, discussions about his health were officially banned, being deemed a matter of national security.
Critics argue that Biya’s extended stay in power has stifled democratic progress and economic development. “President Biya’s announcement to run again is a clear sign of Cameroon’s stalled political transition. After over 40 years in power, what the country needs is renewal – not repetition,” said Nkongho Felix Agbor, a prominent human rights lawyer.
Several opposition leaders have already declared their intention to challenge Biya, including 2018 runner-up Maurice Kamto of the Cameroon Renaissance Movement, Joshua Osih of the Social Democratic Front, lawyer Akere Muna, and Cabral Libii of the Cameroon Party for National Reconciliation. These candidates have all called for sweeping electoral reforms to ensure a credible and transparent vote.
Cameroon continues to face significant challenges, including economic stagnation, insecurity due to the separatist conflict in its English-speaking regions, and ongoing threats from Boko Haram in the north. With only two presidents since independence in the early 1960s, the country could be headed toward a tense and uncertain political future if a clear succession plan is not established.
