Yaoundé, July 13, 2025 – Cameroon’s 92-year-old President Paul Biya, the world’s oldest sitting head of state and Africa’s second-longest serving leader, has officially announced his intention to seek a record eighth term in the presidential election scheduled for October 12, 2025. Biya made the declaration via posts on his verified X account (formerly Twitter), stating: “I am a candidate in the presidential election. Rest assured that my determination to serve you matches the urgency of the challenges we face.”
Who is Paul Biya?
Paul Biya (Paul Barthélemy Biya’a bi Mvondo), born 13 February 1933, he is the long‑time President of Cameroon. He’s held power since succeeding Ahmadou Ahidjo in 1982, after serving as Prime Minister from 1975 to 1982 . educated in local seminaries and high schools before going to France, earning degrees in public law and political science in Paris. Started in the civil service in the 1960s, becoming secretary‑general of the presidency by 1968. Appointed Prime Minister in 1975, under a system revised in 1979 that made him constitutional successor .
He removed term limits in 2008, enabling his extended stay in office. His 2018 reelection with 71.28% of the vote was widely criticized for irregularities and low voter turnout amid separatist violence and security threats. At 92, concerns around his age and health persist, particularly after a 42-day public absence in 2024 that sparked rumors and prompted restrictions on discussing his well-being.
The announcement follows sustained public calls and endorsements from CPDM (Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement) leadership and allied political parties. Yet, two former ministers Issa Tchiroma Bakary and Bello Bouba Maigari both once stalwart Biya allies, have resigned to launch their own presidential campaigns, signaling shifting political dynamics within ruling ranks. A wide array of opposition figures such as Maurice Kamto, Joshua Osih, Akere Muna, and Cabral Libii have also entered the race, advocating for electoral reform and democratic renewal.
Cameroon faces multiple urgent issues such as Economic instability and increasing corruption allegations, A protracted secessionist insurgency in English-speaking Northwest and Southwest regions, Persistent terrorist threats from Boko Haram in the north. These looming crises elevate the significance of the upcoming election amid calls for effective leadership and change. With his candidacy confirmed, Biya sets the stage for a potentially transformative and closely watched election.
Key concerns center around his physical fitness to govern, the credibility of the upcoming poll, and how deeply entrenched factions within his party may reshape the political landscape.
