Cameroon’s Paul Biya Begins Historic 8th Term at 92
President Paul Biya, the world’s oldest sitting leader at 92, was sworn in for an eighth term on Tuesday, extending his 42-year rule over Cameroon. The ceremony in Yaoundé drew ceremonial fanfare but also skepticism, as opposition groups and global observers challenge the legitimacy of his prolonged governance.
Biya’s Legacy: Stability vs. Stagnation
Biya took office in 1982, succeeding Cameroon’s first president, Ahmadou Ahidjo. His tenure has seen economic growth in sectors like oil and agriculture, but critics highlight rampant corruption, electoral irregularities, and worsening ethnic tensions. His recent re-election (71% of the vote in October 2023) was marred by low turnout and opposition claims of fraud.
Now a nonagenarian, Biya outlasts most global leaders in political longevity. Supporters praise his steady hand, while detractors cite his frequent absences—often spent in Switzerland—as a governance risk.
Inauguration Highlights Divisions
The swearing-in featured diplomatic attendees but lacked opposition representation. Biya vowed to uphold the constitution, yet protests were muted in Yaoundé, reflecting public fatigue. Key opponents like Maurice Kamto dismissed the event as illegitimate, reiterating demands for electoral reform.
Meanwhile, Anglophone separatists—fighting for independence since 2017—rejected the ceremony, underscoring Cameroon’s deep political fractures.
Cameroon’s Pressing Challenges
Biya’s new term begins amid escalating crises:
– Anglophone Conflict: A separatist war has displaced 700,000+ and killed thousands, with no peace in sight.
– Economic Struggles: Youth unemployment nears 30%, and corruption scandals persist.
– Healthcare & Infrastructure: Underfunded systems and delayed projects hinder development.
Global Response: Praise and Pressure
While the African Union endorsed Biya’s win, Western nations like the U.S. and France urged reforms. Rights groups condemn crackdowns on dissent, including a new “fake news” law targeting critics.
Succession Uncertainty Looms
With no clear successor, speculation centers on Prime Minister Joseph Dion Ngute or Biya’s son, Franck. Analysts warn that Cameroon’s future hinges on addressing governance gaps amid Biya’s fading public presence.
As Biya’s unprecedented reign continues, Cameroon faces a crossroads: prolonged stability or deepening turmoil.
— Reporting by NextMinuteNews
