Cameroon’s 92-Year-Old President Biya to Seek Eighth Term
- President Biya announces eighth term candidacy on social media.
- Biya has ruled Cameroon for an astonishing 43 years.
- The opposition struggles to unite behind a single candidate.
Biya’s Announcement to Seek Eighth Term
Cameroon’s President Paul Biya, aged 92, made a significant announcement over the weekend via social media. He declared his intention to run for an eighth consecutive term in the upcoming presidential elections, scheduled for October 2025. Biya, who has been in power for a staggering 43 years, shared his message in both French and English on platform X, emphasizing his commitment to overcoming the various challenges that lie ahead for the nation.
Political Landscape Ahead of Elections
In his post, Biya proclaimed, “I am a candidate for the 12 October 2025 presidential election. Rest assured that my determination to serve you is commensurate with the serious challenges facing us.” The Cameroonian leader reassured his supporters by stating, “Together, there are no challenges we cannot meet. The best is still to come.” This statement reflects his ongoing confidence despite growing political tensions within his party and the country.
Challenges Amidst Political Division
Despite Biya’s long tenure and a firm backing from the Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM), he is facing signs of wavering support. Recent months have witnessed a noticeable distancing from some longtime allies, including a couple of prominent defections from his inner circle. On the opposing side, factions within the opposition remain fragmented, with no clear consensus emerging around a united candidate to challenge Biya’s prolonged leadership.
President Paul Biya, at 92 years old, is aiming for re-election in 2025, seeking to extend his lengthy rule in Cameroon amidst a backdrop of political division and signs of waning support. His announcement highlights the complex dynamics within the country’s political landscape as he faces both internal challenges and a fragmented opposition.
