Cameroon President, Paul Biya Who Has Ruled For 42years Reportedly Dies In France

The prolonged absence of President Paul Biya of Cameroon has sparked rumours that he may have died in a military hospital in France. This speculation follows Biya’s extended absence after the China-Africa Summit in September, where he was expected to return to Cameroon immediately afterwards.

At 91 years old, Biya has been in power for 42 years, having assumed office on November 6, 1982. He is Africa’s second-longest-serving president, the longest-serving non-royal national leader globally, and the oldest head of state.

Rumours suggest that France is considering installing Biya’s eldest son, Franck Emmanuel Biya, as his successor for “continuity.” A Cameroonian citizen on X, Okahewahedede, remarked, “Paul Biya ruled Cameroon for 42 years and almost destr%yed the country. Now he is d£ad, and France is doing everything possible to make his eldest son, Franck Emmanuel Biya, his successor.”

Another user, jordanly00, added, “This is nothing new; he hasn’t been running the country for a while.” As speculation intensifies, the government’s silence has fueled public uncertainty regarding Cameroon’s political future. The absence of official updates on Biya’s health has led to widespread speculation, with some reports claiming he is either recovering in Switzerland or hospitalised in France.

Lawyer Christian Ntimbane expressed his concerns in an open letter to Samuel Mvondo Ayolo, director of the Civil Cabinet, urging the government to clarify the president’s situation. “If he is on vacation, say so. If he is sick, say that too,” he stated, aiming to ease public concerns. Biya’s absence has dominated media coverage, raising anxiety among citizens regarding political stability after his 42-year reign.