Cameroon's ruling Cameroon People's Democratic Movement (CPDM) convened an unusual gathering of its top leadership on Wednesday, as pressure grew over President Paul Biya's uninterrupted 45-day stay abroad. Biya, 93, the world's oldest sitting head of state, departed Cameroon on June 7 for what his civil cabinet called 'a brief private stay in Europe.' No official timeline has been given for his return, making this his longest recorded overseas trip since coming to power in 1982.
CPDM Emergency Meeting Called Without Agenda
According to Reuters, Jean Nkuete, secretary-general of the CPDM's central committee, called the gathering but offered no agenda, describing it only as 'an important working session.' Officials have not confirmed any connection between the meeting and the president's prolonged absence. The meeting comes amid a government ban on discussing Biya's health, which was imposed after a similarly lengthy trip in 2024.
Opposition Calls for Constitutional Action
Biya has a long history of spending weeks at a time in Switzerland and other parts of Europe, but his advancing age has sharpened public concern each time he leaves. The Cameroon Democratic Union issued a statement on July 18 calling on officials to 'provide the nation with the necessary clarifications regarding the effective continuity of the state.' Opposition lawmaker Jean Michel Nintcheu went further in a Facebook post on July 17, arguing that the Constitutional Court should formally declare the position of head of state vacant.
Government Silence and Denials
A government spokesperson did not respond to requests for comment. Authorities have previously rejected reports that Biya is receiving medical treatment abroad, insisting he is capable of governing the country remotely. However, the lack of official updates has fueled speculation and criticism.
Succession Questions Left Unresolved
The uncertainty around Biya's condition has exposed a deeper structural gap in Cameroon's leadership arrangements. Lawmakers approved the re-introduction of a vice-presidential role in April, a position that would sit first in line to succeed Biya, but no appointment has been made to fill it. Biya has also yet to name a new cabinet following his re-election victory last October, leaving key governance decisions in a state of suspension.
Economic and Political Implications
Cameroon is a significant producer of cocoa and oil, and the prolonged leadership vacuum has raised questions about day-to-day decision-making in Africa's sixth-largest economy by output. The CPDM's emergency meeting underscores growing unease within the ruling party itself, as Biya's absence continues without explanation.
Background: Biya's 8th Term at Age 92
Legit.ng earlier reported that Cameroon's 92-year-old President Paul Biya was declared the winner of the country's presidential election in October 2024, extending his more than four-decade rule. The Constitutional Council announced on October 27 that Biya secured another seven-year term, making him one of the world's longest-serving and oldest heads of state. Biya, who first came to power in 1982, will now remain in office until 2032, by which time he will be nearing 100 years old.
