Cameroon’s 92-Year-Old President, Paul Biya, Declares Bid to Run for Eighth Term in October Election

Cameroon’s President Paul Biya has officially declared his intention to run for an eighth term in office. The 92-year-old announced on social media, bringing an end to months of speculation over his political future. He said he remains committed to serving and declared that “the best is yet to come.”

The announcement followed a presidential decree signed on Friday, July 11, setting the country’s next presidential election for October 12, 2025. Under the electoral code, candidates have 10 days from the convening of the electoral college to submit their applications.

Biya, who first assumed office in 1982, is the world’s oldest sitting head of state. He is also the second-longest-serving president in Africa. Only Teodoro Mbasogo of Equatorial Guinea, who has ruled since 1979, has been in power longer. A constitutional amendment in 2008 removed term limits. This allows Biya to seek re-election without restriction.

If successful, he would remain Cameroon’s second head of state since independence in 1960. Each presidential term lasts seven years.

Biya won re-election in 2018 with over 70 per cent of the vote. That election was widely criticised and marred by fraud allegations, low voter turnout, and violence.

Biya’s leadership has faced criticism for corruption and human rights abuses. Many accuse him of ignoring long-standing national grievances. His frequent medical trips abroad have also raised concerns about his health and ability to govern. In 2023, widespread rumours of his death forced the government to issue a public denial.

Opposition figures and human rights groups have condemned his latest re-election bid. According to an Africanews report, an activist described it as a sign of Cameroon’s stalled democratic transition. He called for urgent reforms and accountable leadership.

Biya’s main opposition is Maurice Kamto, who has continued campaigning across the country despite pressure from security forces. The upcoming election will determine who leads the African nation of nearly 30 million people.

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