Paul Biya, Cameroon’s long-serving leader, has officially begun his eighth term in office, marking more than four decades at the helm of the Central African nation. The 92-year-old, who remains the world’s oldest sitting president, took the oath of office before lawmakers in Yaoundé on Thursday after an election marred by controversy and deadly protests.
According to the country’s electoral commission, Biya secured 53.7 percent of the vote in the October 12 election, defeating his main rival, former government minister Issa Tchiroma Bakary, who garnered 35.2 percent. The announcement of results sparked outrage across several cities, with opposition supporters alleging widespread irregularities and calling for mass demonstrations. Security forces were swiftly deployed to suppress the unrest, leading to multiple casualties.
Standing before parliament, Biya vowed to remain steadfast in addressing the mounting political and economic challenges facing Cameroon. “I will spare no effort to remain worthy of the trust the Cameroonian people have placed in me,” he said, acknowledging the growing frustration among citizens. “I am fully aware of the difficulties confronting our nation and the expectations of our people.”
Bakary, once an ally of Biya but now a fierce critic, has refused to concede defeat, claiming victory and declaring himself the rightful president. “There are two presidents — the one chosen by the people and the one appointed by the Constitutional Council,” he said on social media, urging his followers to resist peacefully.
Biya’s new seven-year term extends his rule to an unprecedented 50 years, solidifying his position as one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders — a tenure that continues to stir both loyalty and resentment across the nation.
