Cameroonian President Paul Biya announced his intention to run for re-election in the presidential election held on October 12, marking his 8th time running after more than 4 decades in power.
On social media on July 13, Mr. Biya wrote: I am a candidate for the presidential election on October 12. Please be assured that I am determined to serve you, facing the serious challenges we are facing."
At the age of 92, Mr. Biya is currently the world's oldest president. He took power in 1982 after his predecessor Ahmadou Ahidjo resigned. During his long term, he has been the leader of the Cameroonian People's Democratic Party (CPDM) and is currently the party's official candidate in the upcoming election.
Cameroon lifted the presidential term limit in 2008, paving the way for Mr. Biya to continue running.
However, the domestic political situation is changing as his two longtime allies have withdrawn from the ruling coalition and announced that they will run for office in the upcoming race. This development is assessed to be able to put more pressure on Mr. Biya, who has maintained power for decades in the context of many changes in the regional and international situation.
Mr. Biya's health was also a controversial topic. Last year, he did not appear in public for 42 days, raising concerns about his physical condition. The Cameroonian government at the time banned all public discussions about his health, citing national security reasons.
A seven-year presidential term in Cameroon. If elected in October, Mr. Biya can continue to hold the position until he is nearly 100 years old.
