President Paul Biya, aged 92, confirms he will seek re-election
Cameroon’s long-serving leader, President Paul Biya, has officially declared his intention to run in the upcoming October 2025 presidential election. In a statement posted to his verified X (formerly Twitter) account on Sunday, Biya stated:
“I am a candidate in the presidential election. Rest assured that my determination to serve you matches the urgency of the challenges we face.”
This announcement ends months of speculation over whether the 92-year-old would seek an eighth term in power.
Paul Biya first came to power in 1982 following the resignation of Ahmadou Ahidjo. Since then, he has ruled Cameroon through multiple constitutional changes, including a 2008 amendment that removed term limits.
If re-elected, Biya could remain in power until age 99, raising concerns about leadership continuity. His health has been closely guarded, and last year’s 42-day disappearance from public view stirred rumours. Discussion of his medical status remains banned by the government.
The upcoming election is shaping up to be competitive, with several opposition leaders already in the race: Maurice Kamto – Cameroon Renaissance Movement (2018 runner-up), Joshua Osih – Social Democratic Front, Akere Muna – Prominent lawyer and anti-corruption advocate, Cabral Libii – Cameroon Party for National Reconciliation
These figures have called for major electoral reforms and warned against the risks of another extended Biya term. Many cite concerns over democratic stagnation and human rights abuses under his leadership.
Cameroon continues to battle instability on multiple fronts: A violent separatist insurgency in the English-speaking Northwest and Southwest regions, Persistent Boko Haram attacks in the Far North, Economic pressures, despite its status as a major cocoa and oil producer
Analysts warn that a power vacuum or succession crisis could destabilise the country if Biya becomes incapacitated during a future term.
With President Biya’s candidacy now confirmed, all eyes are on Cameroon as it heads toward a highly consequential election. Observers say the 2025 vote could either signal a turning point toward democratic renewal or deepen the entrenchment of one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders.
