President Paul Biya of Cameroon, a prominent and long-standing figure in the nation’s political landscape, has initiated a significant military reshuffle. This action comes amidst escalating concerns over his nearly two-month-long absence from public view and an extended stay abroad.

The 93-year-old head of state appointed several officers to crucial positions within the armed forces, including the promotion of five colonels to the rank of brigadier general.

Such leadership changes within the military are not uncommon during President Biya’s lengthy tenure, often occurring in response to significant public pressure or periods of perceived governmental vulnerability.

A history of strategic military adjustments

Notably, Cameroon swiftly reorganized its military command three years ago following an unexpected coup d’état in neighboring Gabon. That event toppled the Bongo dynasty, sending repercussions across the entire African continent.

Similarly, President Biya reshuffled the military’s top brass last year while campaigning for a contentious eighth term in the presidential election.

Just last June, he again elevated numerous personnel within the defense and security forces to higher ranks.

The specific context surrounding these most recent alterations has ignited considerable discussion, particularly across social media platforms.

Presidential directives from Geneva

President Biya issued these latest appointments through separate decrees on Monday, all while residing in Geneva, Switzerland. He departed Cameroon on June 7th for what his administration characterized as a “brief private stay.”

Within Cameroon, many citizens have voiced criticism regarding the scarcity of information about his activities and the ongoing ambiguity surrounding the length of his overseas trip.

Following last year’s elections, President Biya pledged to form a new government, a promise that remains unfulfilled. Furthermore, the position of vice-president, established just last April, continues to be vacant.

During his nearly 60-day absence abroad, he has nevertheless signed various other decrees, including some that authorize his government to enter into loan agreements with international financial institutions.

Health concerns and political vacuum claims

The president’s prolonged absence has fueled renewed speculation concerning his health. However, the government has consistently refuted reports suggesting the head of state has been hospitalized.

Two years ago, press freedom organizations expressed outrage when it was decreed that Cameroonian media outlets were prohibited from reporting on President Biya’s health status.

René Emmanuel Sadi, Cameroon’s Minister of Communication, affirmed that the president is alive and would soon return to the country.

He further dismissed opposition claims that the nonagenarian leader’s absence constituted a vacancy at the helm of the state, maintaining that President Biya continues to carry out his duties from Geneva.

Conversely, Mamadou Mota, Vice-President of the opposition CRM party, contends that President Biya’s extended absence signifies a “blatant institutional vacuum” in Cameroon.

“Executive power is exercised at the nation’s core, not through smoke signals or telepathy from hotel suites across the globe,” Mota asserted last month.