Meet 92 Year Old Paul Biya, Cameroon’s Longest Serving President

Cameroon’s long-time leader, Paul Biya, has been re-elected for an eighth consecutive term, extending his 43-year rule and solidifying his position as Africa’s and the world’s oldest serving head of state. The 92-year-old president was officially declared the winner by the country’s Constitutional Council with 53.7% of the vote, ahead of his closest challenger, Issa Tchiroma Bakary, who secured 35.2%.

The announcement brought an end to a tense post-election atmosphere marked by speculation, opposition claims of victory, and sporadic protests in parts of the country. For many Cameroonians, however, the result—though expected—has left mixed feelings about what another seven years under Biya’s leadership will mean for the nation.

Early Life and Political Rise

Born on February 13, 1933, in Mvomeka’a, in Cameroon’s South Region, Paul Biya rose through the ranks of public service following his education in France. After returning home, he joined the presidency in the 1960s under Cameroon’s first president, Ahmadou Ahidjo, quickly earning a reputation for discipline and administrative efficiency.

He served as Director of the Civil Cabinet, then as Prime Minister from 1975 to 1982. When Ahidjo unexpectedly resigned, Biya constitutionally succeeded him as president—marking the beginning of a political era that has now stretched across more than four decades.

Biya’s Years in Power and Achievements

Since assuming office, Biya has maintained a tight grip on Cameroon’s political structure, winning every election since 1984. Supporters credit him with preserving national unity in a country marked by linguistic and regional diversity. His administration has managed to avert major economic collapse despite pressures from international creditors and periods of social unrest.

Under Biya, Cameroon has seen relative macroeconomic stability, the expansion of infrastructure projects, and increased foreign partnerships—particularly with China. His diplomatic approach has positioned Cameroon as a stable player in Central Africa, even as the region has faced waves of political upheaval.

Over the years, Biya’s rule has also taken on a more symbolic tone. Many view him less as an active decision-maker and more as a constitutional figurehead, delegating daily governance to senior officials while maintaining ultimate control.

Challenges and Growing Criticism

Despite his longevity in office, Biya’s leadership has been shadowed by rising discontent and questions about accountability. His frequent and extended stays abroad—often in Geneva—have fueled public frustration and speculation about his health. Critics argue that his absence from domestic affairs has weakened public trust and hindered policy direction.

The most severe challenge to his rule has come from the Anglophone crisis, a violent conflict in the North-West and South-West regions rooted in grievances over marginalization. Biya’s slow response when protests first broke out in 2016 allowed tensions to escalate into a separatist movement that continues to threaten national unity.

Additionally, the country’s young population faces high unemployment, stagnant economic growth, and limited political freedom, contributing to mounting calls for change. Yet, Biya’s political machinery and divided opposition have consistently ensured his hold on power.

Public Response to Biya’s New Term

As Biya embarks on another term, reactions among Cameroonians remain divided. Loyalists of the ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) celebrate his re-election as a sign of continuity and peace. However, many citizens, especially the youth, express growing fatigue with a system that offers little real political competition or generational renewal.

In the northern city of Garoua, crowds had earlier rallied behind opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary, viewing him as a potential agent of change. His loss has reignited frustration among opposition supporters, with sporadic unrest reported in Douala and Yaoundé following the results.

With no clear successor and internal rivalries brewing within his party, the question of succession looms large. While speculation occasionally points to his son, Franck Biya, there has been no formal indication of a transition plan.