At 92 years old, Cameroon’s President Paul Biya currently the world’s longest serving head of state has announced his intention to run for re-election in October, aiming to extend his 43 year tenure.
In a message shared on social media platform X, Biya said: “Rest assured that my determination to serve you matches the urgency of the challenges we face.” He explained that his decision was made after receiving “numerous and insistent” appeals from citizens across Cameroon and the diaspora.
Although his candidacy had long been anticipated, it was officially confirmed only in Sunday’s post. If successful, Biya would begin an eighth term that could see him remain in office until nearly 100.
Despite his grip on power since 1982, Biya’s administration has faced repeated criticism for issues including corruption, poor governance, and security failures. His prolonged absence from public view last year sparked speculation about his health, even leading to unfounded rumors of his death.
Calls for new leadership have grown both within Cameroon and abroad. In recent months, Biya has lost key political allies from the northern regions traditionally strongholds of support. Prominent figures Issa Tchiroma Bakary and former Prime Minister Bello Bouba Maigari have exited the ruling coalition and declared their own bids for the presidency.
Tchiroma accused Biya’s government of eroding public trust and said he was defecting to a rival party.
Several opposition candidates have also joined the race, including Maurice Kamto, runner-up in the 2018 election, along with Joshua Osih, Akere Muna, and Cabral Libii.
Despite rising opposition and internal fractures, Biya remains the de facto candidate of the Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement, the party he leads. Supporters have long urged him to seek another term, and constitutional reforms in 2008 abolished presidential term limits allowing him to run indefinitely.
Biya officially won the last election in 2018 with more than 71% of the vote, although opposition parties challenged the results, citing widespread irregularities.
