President Paul Biya’s Prolonged Absence Sparks Speculation in Cameroon

President Paul Biya of Cameroon has been notably absent from both domestic and international events in recent months, prompting widespread speculation regarding his whereabouts. Local reports indicate that President Biya departed Cameroon in early July 2023 for an official mission abroad.

Initially, the President commenced his diplomatic trip in France in July, after which he traveled to China. However, his absence became more conspicuous when he did not attend the United Nations General Assembly. According to an official statement, President Biya opted to take a period of rest in Switzerland during this time.

Further fueling speculation was his non-appearance at the recent La Francophonie summit, which took place in France. Sources within the presidential office have attributed President Biya’s absence from key events to health reasons.

The Cameroonian constitution does not impose a legal limit on how long a President can remain outside the country. Despite this, public discourse has suggested that being away for approximately 40 days might be considered acceptable. Throughout President Biya’s 42-year tenure, there have been instances when he remained abroad for extended durations, sometimes leading to rumors surrounding his mortality, only for him to make a dramatic return.

Meanwhile, political figures in Cameroon have been rallying for the 91-year-old President Paul Biya to pursue another term in the impending 2025 presidential elections. This support persists in spite of ongoing discussions and concerns about his health condition.

The traditional calls for President Biya’s candidacy remain a staple of Cameroonian political culture, notwithstanding the growing health concerns swirling around the seasoned leader.