Cameroon’s 91-year-old President Paul Biya made his first public appearance in six weeks, quelling rumors about his deteriorating health. His prolonged absence fueled widespread, yet unfounded, speculation of his death.
On Monday, state television aired footage of Biya returning to Yaoundé from Switzerland, where he had been on a private visit. The government had previously banned discussions about his health, classifying it as a national security issue.
Biya, in power since 1982, appeared dressed in his signature suit, looking visibly strong. His last public appearance was at a China-Africa summit on 8 September, after which the government faced mounting pressure to confirm his wellbeing. Officials denied the death rumors, insisting that Biya was in good health.
Upon his return, Biya was greeted by state officials and members of the ruling party, with crowds gathering in the capital, a likely effort to dispel doubts about his condition.
His reappearance might fuel calls from within his CPDM party to seek another seven-year term in next year’s election. Though Biya has not confirmed whether he will run, critics suggest his recent political maneuvers indicate an attempt to further entrench his party’s hold on power.
