Yaoundé, Cameroon: President Paul Biya, at 92 the world’s oldest sitting head of state, has officially announced his intention to run for an unprecedented eighth term in Cameroon’s upcoming presidential election, scheduled for October 12, 2025. The announcement was made via a statement posted on social media platform X on Monday, ending months of speculation.
Biya, who has ruled Cameroon since 1982, claimed that his leadership has yielded “palpable, visible, and laudable” results, while acknowledging that more work remains. In his post, he stated:
“Since assuming office, I have dedicated myself to the sacred mission of safeguarding the well-being and safety of our nation. The support of our people has been instrumental, but the challenges ahead demand continued action.”
He added that the decision to run again was influenced by calls from Cameroonians across the country and diaspora:
“I have listened to the repeated appeals from across our ten regions and the diaspora. I am a candidate in the presidential election of October 12. My priorities remain the welfare of our women and youth. The best is yet to come.”
A Long, Controversial Reign
Biya has maintained power for over four decades, winning repeated elections — the last in 2018 with over 71% of the vote — amid widespread allegations of voter fraud and suppression. In 2008, constitutional term limits were abolished, effectively allowing him to run indefinitely.
His prolonged rule has drawn sharp criticism from opposition leaders and civil society groups, who accuse his government of authoritarianism and economic stagnation. Meanwhile, Biya’s supporters within the ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) have consistently championed his leadership and pressed for continuity.
According to Al Jazeera, Biya’s health has also been a concern, particularly following a 42-day public absence in 2024. He has made few public appearances in recent years and is believed to govern largely through his chief of staff.
A Country in Crisis
Biya’s announcement comes at a time of rising instability in Cameroon. The country continues to face violent separatist unrest in its Anglophone regions, economic difficulties, and an ongoing threat from Boko Haram militants in the north.
Several opposition figures — including Maurice Kamto, Joshua Osih, Akere Muna, and Cabral Libii — have already declared their candidacies, calling for electoral reforms and an end to what they describe as one-man rule.
Cameroon has had only two presidents since its independence in 1960, and Biya’s eighth run may well determine the future trajectory of its democracy.
