Two months without president Paul Biya: who really governs Cameroon

The whereabouts of President Paul Biya have become a growing source of speculation across Cameroon, with civil society groups and opposition parties questioning whether the 93-year-old leader is still alive. The veteran statesman, re-elected in 2025 in a disputed election, holds the unenviable title of the world’s oldest serving head of state.

Since departing from Yaoundé on June 7, he has been overseeing the country from Geneva, Switzerland, reportedly on what was described as a brief private visit. It marks the first time in his 44-year presidency that he has spent more than 50 consecutive days abroad for personal reasons. “It’s no secret that Cameroon operates in a state of perpetual absurdity. The nation with the planet’s oldest leader now spends more time abroad than in its own presidential palace,” remarked a prominent local newspaper.

Despite his prolonged absence, the Presidency continues to issue official decrees bearing Biya’s signature. The most recent, published on August 3, included sweeping military reforms with the appointment of key commanders to strategic positions. This move has raised eyebrows, not only for its symbolic significance but also for the unanswered question of who is actually steering the ship of state.