Cameroon government denies power vacuum amid Biya’s absence

Yaoundé — The prolonged absence of Cameroon’s President Paul Biya, now approaching two months, has sparked renewed speculation, prompting the government to issue an official clarification over the weekend.

In a rare statement, the Minister of Communication and government spokesperson René Emmanuel Sadi confirmed that the President remains alive and active in his duties. He also announced Biya’s impending return to Cameroon, though no specific date was provided.

Government responds to opposition claims

This official statement marks the first direct response from Cameroonian authorities since the President’s extended absence began. It comes as opposition figures demand institutional clarity, questioning Biya’s capacity to fulfill his duties.

« There is no power vacuum, » Sadi emphasized during an interview, addressing concerns raised by opposition voices. He firmly denied any suggestion of a constitutional breach or an interruption in Biya’s leadership.

Constitutional interpretation challenged

The government spokesman criticized opposition leaders for what he described as a « skewed interpretation » of the country’s constitutional framework. According to Sadi, the Constitution must be assessed with « rigorous objectivity, » particularly regarding claims that the Constitutional Council has declared a power vacuum.

« The Constitutional Council has not issued any declaration of a vacancy in power, » he stated, dismissing such assertions as unfounded.

Uncertainty over return date

When pressed for details on Biya’s return, Sadi acknowledged the lack of a precise timeline. « I cannot provide an exact date for President Paul Biya’s return, » he admitted, while reassuring the public that the head of state would be back « very soon. »

The prolonged absence has fueled persistent rumors and political tensions in Cameroon, where opposition groups continue to scrutinize the government’s transparency. Authorities have yet to disclose Biya’s current location or the reasons behind his extended stay abroad.