Cameroon’s President Paul Biya, the world’s oldest serving head of state at 92, has officially declared his intention to run for re-election.
In 2008, Biya removed presidential term limits, allowing him to seek office indefinitely. Today, July 13, he announced his plan to contest for an unprecedented eighth term via a post on his official X account.
The message read: “I am a candidate in the presidential election. Rest assured that my determination to serve you matches the urgency of the challenges we face.”
Biya has been in power since 1982, when he succeeded his predecessor, Ahmadou Ahidjo, and if re-elected, he could remain in office until nearly 100 years old.
His health has often been a topic of speculation, especially last year when he disappeared from public view for 42 days. Although widely expected, his re-election bid was only formally confirmed through Sunday’s social media announcement.
Leading up to the declaration, Biya had been actively posting on his verified X account. The announcement is likely to reignite debates about his fitness for office, as he rarely makes public appearances and frequently delegates duties to the powerful presidential chief of staff.
Last October, after returning from a 42-day absence that fueled rumors of ill health, the government dismissed concerns, declaring Biya was in good health and labeling any discussion of his condition a matter of national security.
During Biya’s tenure, Cameroon has grappled with economic difficulties and various security challenges.
