Cameroon — After nearly two months away from the public eye, Cameroonian authorities have broken their silence. The government confirms President Paul Biya remains alive and is set to return soon, as speculation swirls around his health and whereabouts.
The administration finally addressed the prolonged absence of President Paul Biya, who has not been seen in public since June 7. In response to mounting rumors and public concern, Communications Minister and government spokesperson René Emmanuel Sadi addressed the nation on August 2, clarifying the situation to ease tensions.
The government official dismissed claims of a power vacuum, emphasizing that only the Constitutional Council can legally declare such a scenario. « The Constitutional Council has not ruled to declare a power vacuum at the helm of the state. President Paul Biya is alive. President Paul Biya has not resigned, » he stated firmly.
René Emmanuel Sadi’s statement also aimed to counter demands from opposition figures, who have for weeks insisted on recognizing a power vacuum due to the president’s extended absence. When questioned about Biya’s current location and return date, the spokesperson remained vague but hinted at an imminent return. « I cannot tell you exactly when President Paul Biya will return. Even if I knew, it wouldn’t be my place to announce it here. All I can say is that he will be back very soon, » he told reporters.
At 93 years old, Paul Biya has led Cameroon since 1982, making him the world’s longest-serving incumbent leader. His last public appearance was on June 7, when he left 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, an unprecedented gap in his decades-long leadership.
Despite the uncertainty, the Cameroonian presidency continues to release official decrees signed in the president’s name. On July 22, several decrees bearing the « Yaoundé » signing location were published, fueling further debate online.
Social media discussions have questioned the authenticity of these documents, deepening doubts about the president’s health and exact whereabouts.
