On Thursday, August 20, at midday, President Paul Biya, accompanied by his wife Chantal and their delegation, was en route to Yaoundé aboard a private Boeing jet, registered P4-CLA. Their journey originated in Geneva, with an anticipated arrival in the Cameroonian capital late in the afternoon.

Reports indicate that activists from the ruling party, the Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (RDPC), have been mobilized to orchestrate a particularly enthusiastic reception for the head of state upon his return.

Cameroonian authorities have meticulously orchestrated this presidential homecoming. A prime example is the extensive deployment by CRTV, the national public media group, which has assigned 200 of its staff members to provide live radio and television coverage of the event. This return has been elevated to a major national spectacle, with the presidential jet’s landing and the subsequent 22-kilometer motorcade journey from the airport to the palace set for broadcast and commentary across their channels.

Over 70 days away from the nation

This return flight, about which neither the Presidency of the Republic of Cameroon nor the government issued any official communication, marks exactly 74 days since the Cameroonian head of state was last in the country. This extended absence set a new record, fueling a flurry of rumors concerning his status, particularly his health. Speculations ranged from serious illness and hospitalization following knee surgery to routine medical consultations.

The people of Cameroon are eager to observe if their head of state utilized this prolonged period away to fulfill some of his long-standing promises. Among these is the formation of a new government, which was announced eight months ago but remains pending. There is also keen anticipation regarding the appointment for the newly established Vice-Presidential post, a position created last April, a key development in African politics.