Cameroon — Following nearly two months of public absence, Cameroonian authorities have broken their silence. The government has confirmed that President Paul Biya remains alive and is set to return soon, amid growing speculation about his health.
The government issued its first official response to the prolonged absence of President Paul Biya, who has not been seen in public since June 7. Addressing the nation’s concerns and widespread rumors, Communications Minister and Government Spokesperson René Emmanuel Sadi delivered a statement on August 2, providing reassurance to Cameroonians.
The government official firmly dismissed any notion of a power vacuum, emphasizing that only a decision by the Constitutional Council can legally declare such a situation. « The Constitutional Council has not declared a vacancy of power at the head of the state. President Paul Biya is alive. President Paul Biya has not resigned, » he stated.
In addressing calls from opposition figures who have long demanded recognition of a power vacuum due to the president’s extended absence, Sadi remained measured in his response. When questioned about the president’s current location and return timeline, he chose not to disclose specifics but hinted at an imminent return. « I cannot tell you exactly when President Paul Biya will return. And even if I knew, it is not my place to announce it here. What I can say is that he will be back very soon, » he remarked.
At 93 years old, Paul Biya has led Cameroon since 1982, making him the world’s longest-serving incumbent head of state. His last public appearance was on June 7, when he departed Yaoundé for what was officially described as a « brief private stay in Europe » alongside his wife, Chantal Biya. Since then, no public appearances have been recorded—a rarity since he assumed office.
Despite the uncertainty, the Cameroonian presidency continues to release official decrees bearing the president’s signature. On July 22, several decrees with « Yaoundé » listed as the signing location were made public, further fueling online debates. Some social media users have questioned the authenticity of these documents, deepening speculation about the president’s health and whereabouts.
