Cameroon’s 92-year-old President, Paul Biya, has been re-elected for another seven-year term, extending his more than four decades in power.
The country’s Constitutional Council announced the results on Monday, declaring Biya the winner of the October 12 presidential election with 53.66% of the votes. His closest challenger, opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma, secured 35.19%.
Tchiroma had earlier declared himself the winner and accused the government of manipulating the electoral process.
With this victory, Biya—who has ruled Cameroon since 1982—tightens his hold as one of the world’s longest-serving leaders, outlasting multiple generations of African heads of state.
The announcement triggered mixed reactions across the country. While his supporters celebrated what they called a “vote for continuity and stability,” critics condemned the outcome, describing it as evidence of “electoral manipulation” and “democratic decay.”
Many opposition groups have rejected the results, calling for international observers to investigate alleged irregularities during the polls. Protests erupted in several cities, including Garoua and Douala, where police fired teargas to disperse crowds defying a government ban on demonstrations.
Political analysts say Biya’s re-election underscores the enduring influence of Cameroon’s ruling elite and a deeply entrenched political structure resistant to change.
Despite mounting domestic and international calls for political transition, Biya—often referred to as the “Lion Man” for his resilience—has maintained tight control over state institutions and security forces.
His new term will run until 2032, marking 50 years since he first assumed power following the resignation of Ahmadou Ahidjo.
Observers say the re-election of Africa’s oldest sitting president reflects the fragility of democracy in the Central African nation, where dissent remains tightly controlled and opposition leaders face frequent arrests or intimidation.
As celebrations and outrage continue to sweep through Cameroon, many citizens are left questioning what the next seven years will mean for the nation’s political future.
