Paul Biya, the world’s oldest president, is set to extend his unprecedented rule in Cameroon, potentially remaining in power until he turns 99. Learn about his legacy and the challenges ahead.
Born on February 13, 1933, Biya has been at the helm of Cameroon since 1982, marking over four decades of leadership. His unprecedented rule not only makes him one of the longest-serving heads of state globally but also one of the oldest, having celebrated his 92nd birthday this year. The Guinness Book of World Records recognizes Biya as the “oldest president ever,” a title he continues to hold.
A Long and Unyielding Rule
Biya’s political journey began in 1975 when he was appointed as Cameroon’s prime minister. Just seven years later, he was sworn in as president in November 1982. He was re-elected as the sole candidate in 1984 and again in 1988. Over time, his political party, the Cameroonian People’s Democratic Movement (RDPC), has maintained near-total dominance, winning landslide victories in virtually every election since the 1990s.
Now, with the most recent elections held on October 12, 2023, Biya’s continued rule appears likely, with the Constitutional Council due to announce the results by October 26. If re-elected, Biya’s term would extend by another seven years, bringing him to a staggering age of 99 by the time of the next election in 2030.
Cameroon’s Political History and Biya’s Legacy
Cameroon’s history is marked by colonial divisions between France and the UK, followed by its independence in 1960 and 1961. Following the resignation of Cameroon’s first president, Ahmadou Ahidjo, Biya assumed leadership and has maintained control ever since, winning seven elections along the way.
Despite his long tenure, concerns over Biya’s age and health have emerged, particularly since much of his governance is said to be carried out by party officials and family members, with Biya spending a significant portion of his time in Europe. Nonetheless, he remains defiant in his desire to continue ruling. “Our candidate is in great shape… and he is capable of continuing what he has started,” said Grégoire Owona, the country’s labor minister and RDPC secretary general, in defense of Biya’s bid.
Challenges and Opposition to His Rule
This election marks a significant challenge for Biya, with 11 other candidates vying for the presidency. Some of these candidates include former government officials and close allies of Biya, such as Bello Bouba Maigari, a former tourism minister and Biya’s first prime minister, and Issa Tchiroma Bakary, who recently defected from Biya’s government.
Rising unemployment, social unrest, conflicts, and a growing cost-of-living crisis have all contributed to discontent among the population. Opposition parties accuse the electoral commission, Elections Cameroon, of being subservient to Biya’s party, undermining the legitimacy of the elections.
Maurice Kamto, considered the most credible opposition candidate, has been barred from running by the courts, further complicating the political landscape. Yet, political analyst Dr. Benjamin Akih remains optimistic about Bakary’s chances, arguing that Biya’s age and the deteriorating state of the country could weaken his position.
“This election is different,” Akih said. “Mr. Biya was the weakest candidate the CPDM could put forward on account of his age and the poor state of the country after his 43 years in power.”
Biya’s Determination to Continue Leading
Despite growing speculation about his fitness for office, Biya remains resolute in his mission to lead Cameroon. “In the face of an increasingly difficult international environment, the challenges we face are more and more pressing,” Biya stated during his campaign. “In such a situation, I cannot shirk my mission.”
With the election results still pending, it remains to be seen whether Biya will extend his historic rule even further, or whether Cameroon will experience a shift in leadership after decades of his unyielding control.
