Cameroon’s 93-year-old President Paul Biya is facing growing criticism over his prolonged absence from the country, with critics accusing the veteran leader of running away from his presidential duties.
Biya, who has ruled Cameroon since 1982, has been outside the country since June, reportedly spending time in Europe.
Although government officials insist that he remains in charge and will return, his extended absence has fuelled questions about his health, ability to govern and who is effectively running the country.
The controversy comes as Cameroon faces political and economic challenges, while opposition figures are demanding greater transparency over the president’s whereabouts and capacity to perform his duties.
Despite being away, Biya has continued to exercise presidential powers, including making recent changes to the country’s military leadership.
But with no clear date for his return, pressure is mounting on the government to explain the prolonged absence of the world’s oldest serving head of state.
