Government Reassures Amid Extended Absence

Yaoundé — After nearly two months out of the public eye, Cameroon’s authorities have broken their silence. Officials confirm President Paul Biya remains alive and is set to return soon, as rumors about his health intensify.

The government’s first response followed weeks of speculation about the 93-year-old leader’s prolonged absence. Minister of Communication and government spokesperson René Emmanuel Sadi addressed the nation on August 2, firmly dismissing claims of a power vacuum.

« The Constitutional Council has not declared a vacancy in the presidency. President Paul Biya is alive and has not resigned, » Sadi stated, reaffirming that only the Constitutional Council could legally recognize such a vacancy.

The government’s statement also addressed opposition demands for transparency. Opposition figures have long urged recognition of a power vacuum due to Biya’s extended absence. However, Sadi maintained discretion on the president’s exact location or return date, hinting at an imminent comeback.

« I cannot confirm when President Paul Biya will return, nor is it my place to announce it. However, I can say with certainty that his return is imminent, » he told reporters.

A Historic Leadership Under Scrutiny

Biya, who has led Cameroon since 1982, holds the record as the world’s longest-serving current head of state. His last public appearance was on June 7, when he left for what was officially described as a « brief private stay in Europe » with his wife, Chantal Biya. Since then, no official engagements have been recorded—a rarity in his decades-long tenure.

Despite the absence, the presidency has continued issuing decrees in Biya’s name. On July 22, multiple official documents bearing the Yaoundé signature were released, sparking fresh debates.

Social media users questioned the authenticity of these documents, fueling further speculation about the president’s health and whereabouts. The government has yet to clarify the situation, leaving many questions unanswered.