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Cameroon: President Biya's prolonged absence fuels death rumours
By Guardian Editor 08 October 2024 | 3:58 pm
The prolonged absence of President Paul Biya of Cameroon has sparked rumours that he may have died in a military hospital in France.
This speculation follows Biya's extended absence after the China-Africa Summit in September, where he was expected to return to Cameroon immediately afterwards.
At 91 years old, Biya has been in power for 42 years, having assumed office on November 6, 1982. He is Africa's second-longest-serving president, the longest-serving non-royal national leader globally, and the oldest head of state.
Rumours suggest that France is considering installing Biya's eldest son, Franck Emmanuel Biya, as his successor for "continuity."
A Cameroonian citizen on X, @Okahewahedede, remarked, "Paul Biya ruled Cameroon for 42 years and almost destroyed the country. Now he is dead, and France is doing everything possible to make his eldest son, Franck Emmanuel Biya, his successor."
Another user, @jordanly00, added, "This is nothing new; he hasn't been running the country for a while."
As speculation intensifies, the government's silence has fueled public uncertainty regarding Cameroon's political future. The absence of official updates on Biya's health has led to widespread speculation, with some reports claiming he is either recovering in Switzerland or hospitalised in France.
Lawyer Christian Ntimbane expressed his concerns in an open letter to Samuel Mvondo Ayolo, director of the Civil Cabinet, urging the government to clarify the president's situation.
"If he is on vacation, say so. If he is sick, say that too," he stated, aiming to ease public concerns.
Biya's absence has dominated media coverage, raising anxiety among citizens regarding political stability after his 42-year reign.
On social media platforms, opinions are divided. Some users suspect that France aims to install Biya as his father's successor, while others believe Cameroon is on the verge of liberation from Biya's prolonged rule.
READ ALSO: Paul Biya's scandalous seventh term
According to Cameroon Concord, a political framework may already be in place to facilitate the transition, with Biya's brother-in-law, Robert Nkili, positioned to serve as interim president.
However, opposition leaders, such as Maurice Kamto, may mobilise to contest any dynastic succession attempts, advocating for democratic reforms.
Biya has been Cameroon's president since November 6, 1982, following his role as prime minister from 1975 to 1982.
As speculation continues, the government's silence perpetuates public uncertainty about Cameroon's political future.
