Authorities in Cameroon dismissed rumours about President Paul Biya’s health on Tuesday. The 91-year-old leader has been absent from public view for a month, last seen at the China-Africa summit in Beijing. Since then, Biya missed significant events like the United Nations General Assembly and the La Francophonie summit in France. The government confirmed Biya is in Europe and in good health.
Communications Minister Rene Sadi stated the speculation about Biya’s health is baseless and purely imaginative. Sadi assured that Biya is well and will return to Cameroon soon, without specifying the trip’s purpose or his return date.
Biya, Africa’s second-longest-serving leader, has led Cameroon since 1982, making him the only president many citizens have ever known. His tenure has faced criticism from rights groups, accusing him of using prosecution and intimidation to maintain power.
Cameroon’s 🇨🇲 government says that the long-time President Paul #Biya is “doing well and will return to Cameroon in the next few days” after rumours on his health reached a new peak on Tuesday with the broadcast, by South African channel ABS Africa TV, announcing the head of… pic.twitter.com/jhcD6FpyRl
— Kennedy Wandera (@KennedyWandera_) October 8, 2024
Cameroon’s government deals with multiple issues, including a secessionist movement in its English-speaking regions, leading to violent clashes, and threats from Boko Haram in neighbouring Nigeria.
What Other Media Are Saying
- Star Tribune reports that Cameroon’s 91-year-old President Paul Biya’s whereabouts in Europe are clarified by an official, dismissing health speculation about the leader.(read more)
- KESQ reports that Cameroon’s 91-year-old President, Paul Biya, has been in Europe, sparking speculation about his health and longevity in power, amid his 42-year rule.(read more)
- The Hour reports on Cameroon’s 91-year-old leader, Paul Biya, who has not been seen in public since the China-Africa summit in Beijing a month ago, sparking speculation about his whereabouts.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Is Cameroon’s President Paul Biya sick?
Authorities say he is well, despite widespread speculation about his health.
Where is President Paul Biya currently?
He is on a visit to Europe, according to Cameroonian authorities.
When was the last time Paul Biya was seen in public?
He was last seen at the China-Africa summit in Beijing a month ago.
Why did Paul Biya miss the United Nations General Assembly?
No official reason was given, but he has been absent from several expected gatherings.
How long has Paul Biya been in power?
Paul Biya has been in power since 1982, making him Africa’s second-longest-serving leader.
