Opposition leader urges constitutional council to declare presidential vacancy

In Cameroon, opposition figure Jean-Michel Nintcheu has formally called on the Constitutional Council to declare a vacancy at the highest level of the State. His demand comes as President Paul Biya approaches 45 days abroad, fueling renewed speculation about the 93-year-old leader’s health and ability to govern.

Paul Biya left for what was initially described as a brief private visit to Switzerland on June 7. Since then, he has not returned to Yaoundé, prompting sharp divisions in public discourse. While some view his prolonged absence as a sign of instability, others argue it is a routine personal matter that requires no immediate concern.

On his official Facebook page, Jean-Michel Nintcheu, a prominent opposition figure and former member of the Social Democratic Front (SDF), issued a direct appeal to constitutional authorities. In a post dated July 17, he stated: « The Constitutional Council must officially recognize the vacancy at the summit of the State. »

Ruling party dismisses concerns over leadership

In response, the ruling Cameroonian People’s Democratic Movement (RDPC) has sought to calm public anxiety. Christophe Mien Zok, Director of Propaganda for the RDPC, dismissed suggestions of a leadership vacuum. « Power is not vacant. The Lion has not left, » he declared, invoking the widely used nickname for the president. He pointed out that Paul Biya continues to conduct official duties from Geneva, including signing congratulatory messages to foreign leaders—most recently to Emmanuel Macron on the occasion of France‘s national holiday.

The standoff highlights deepening political tensions in a nation where the health of the octogenarian president has long been a sensitive topic. With no clear succession plan and a governing party defending the status quo, the debate over presidential fitness and constitutional procedures is intensifying.