Cameroon’s President Paul Biya to Run for Re-election at Age 93

Cameroon’s long-standing leader, President Paul Biya, is set to contest the country’s upcoming presidential election at the age of 93. Biya, currently 91, has announced his intention to run in the 2026 Presidential Election, marking his eighth bid for the presidency. If successful, he would be poised to complete a new seven-year term, extending his leadership to the age of 100 by 2032.

Biya, who has been in power for over four decades, first assumed office as President in 1982 after serving as the Prime Minister from 1975 to 1982. His decision to delay the election, originally scheduled for 2025, by a year has stirred controversy and frustration among opposition parties. Critics argue that the move, coupled with the potential exclusion of opposition candidates, could pave the way for another uncontested victory for Biya.

Last month, Cameroon’s parliament approved Biya’s request to postpone both parliamentary and municipal elections until 2026, citing an overcrowded political calendar as the reason for the delay. The decision has added to the growing discontent among political opponents and citizens who are calling for more democratic processes in the country.

As Africa’s longest-serving president, Biya’s prolonged tenure and continued pursuit of power have drawn significant international attention, raising questions about the future of leadership and democracy in Cameroon.