Cameroon — After nearly two months out of the public eye, Cameroonian authorities have broken their silence. The government confirms President Paul Biya remains alive and announces his imminent return, amid mounting speculation about his health.
Government dispels rumors of presidential absence
Cameroonian officials have addressed concerns about President Paul Biya’s prolonged absence, which began on June 7. Government spokesperson René Emmanuel Sadi addressed the nation on August 2, directly refuting claims of power vacuum. He emphasized that only a Constitutional Council ruling could legally declare such a situation, stating, « The Constitutional Council has not declared a power vacuum. President Paul Biya is alive and has not resigned. »
Opposition pressures mount over Biya’s whereabouts
Sadi’s statement comes in response to weeks of demands from opposition figures who have insisted on recognizing a power vacuum due to the President’s extended absence. While the government acknowledged Biya’s return to Cameroon is imminent, no specific timeline was provided. « I cannot give an exact date for his return, nor would it be appropriate for me to do so, » Sadi noted. « But I can confirm he will be back very soon. »
Decades of leadership amid health questions
At 93, Paul Biya has led Cameroon since 1982, making him the world’s longest-serving current head of state. His departure on June 7 was officially described as a « private stay in Europe » alongside his wife, Chantal Biya. Since then, no public appearances have been recorded—a first during his decades in power.
Despite his absence, official decrees signed in Yaoundé continue to circulate, including one dated July 22. This has sparked online debates about the authenticity of these documents, further fueling speculation about Biya’s health and location.