Cameroon governance expert Benjamin Ngongang has taken direct aim at President Paul Biya’s frequent absences and extended stays abroad during a recent television appearance.

The Camerounian head of state’s private trip to Europe was the focal point of a discussion on Canal Presse, broadcast on Canal 2 International on July 26, 2026. Speaking from the studio, Ngongang voiced strong concerns about the president’s remote management of state affairs and lack of on-the-ground visits.

«The president of the Republic is not elected to govern from abroad. It is concerning that even members of the majority party should be worried about the head of state spending 49 consecutive days overseas. The president left Cameroon on June 7, and as of today, we are at 49 days. He has matched his previous record, and if he doesn’t return tonight, he will set a new record for the longest absence from the country.» Ngongang declared during the show.

«There is no other country in the world where this kind of situation occurs. Cameroon truly stands out with this unprecedented practice. No nation allows a president to remain abroad for more than 30 days, whether for personal or official reasons.» he continued.

«Even leaders facing critical challenges—take the U.S. president or Iran’s Assembly Speaker engaged in active warfare—would not stay abroad for 49 days. They travel to resolve conflicts and return promptly because ultimate authority must be present to finalize agreements negotiated by technical teams.» Ngongang emphasized during the broadcast.