As Cameroon prepares for its next presidential election, President Paul Biya, who has been in power since 1982, remains at the center of political discourse.
At 91 (turning 92 soon), Biya is the world’s oldest sitting head of state and has yet to formally announce his candidacy for the 2025 elections. However, growing support from his party, the Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM), suggests he may seek to extend his four-decade rule.
Supporters argue that Biya’s leadership has ensured stability and development in Cameroon, particularly in infrastructure, education, and energy supply.
Senior CPDM officials have rallied across the country, urging Biya to run, emphasizing that he remains a “natural candidate” capable of maintaining peace and unity.
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Despite his stronghold on power, Biya faces criticism over widespread corruption, economic hardship, and persistent conflicts.
Transparency International ranked Cameroon among the most corrupt nations in 1998 and 1999, and many opposition voices argue that corruption remains rampant.
Unemployment, particularly among the youth, remains a major issue, while the Anglophone crisis, fueled by separatist movements in the western regions, has resulted in over 6,000 deaths.
Opposition figures like Cabral Libii insist that Biya’s prolonged rule has weakened democratic processes and accuse him of suppressing dissent. They argue that Cameroon needs younger, more dynamic leadership to tackle the nation’s growing problems.
Biya has remained vague about his political future. In his recent New Year’s address, he spoke about the country’s progress but did not confirm whether he will seek another term.
However, analysts believe his party is laying the groundwork for his candidacy, making a formal announcement seem likely.
