After a prolonged absence prompted concerns over his health and whereabouts, Cameroonian President Paul Biya has returned to the country.
On his arrival from Geneva with his wife Chantal Biya, the 91 year-old did not speak to the public.
But he did wave at supporters gathered nearby as his car drove away from the airport in the Cameroonian capital Yaounde.
Lining the route from the airport to the presidential palace were thousands of supporters of the ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement.
Among the crowds, some carried placards welcoming the President back, and sending their well wishes.
Biya’s disappearance from Cameroon triggered widespread speculation he was ill.
But authorities have published statements insisting that he is well, and have insisted that it was a matter of national security.
Age not on his side!
Biya, Cameroon’s president since 1982, is still holding onto power despite being in his 90s.
Born on February 13, 1933, Biya has defied his advancing age and health concerns to maintain his grip on the country.
He has even expressed interest in running for office yet again, a move that has sparked concerns among opposition parties and Western governments.
Biya’s rise to power began in the 1960s under President Ahmadou Ahidjo, where he served as Secretary-General of the Presidency and later as Prime Minister.
After Ahidjo’s surprise resignation in 1982, Biya took over as president and has since consolidated power through a series of controversial elections.
Throughout his presidency, Biya has faced criticism for his authoritarian rule and allegations of voting irregularities and fraud.
The opposition has accused him of using the country’s resources to maintain his grip on power, and his government has been marred by corruption and human rights abuses.
Biya has managed to maintain a tight grip on power thanks to his control of the country’s security forces and the ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement party.
He has also cultivated relationships with foreign powers, including France and China, which have provided him with financial and military support.
Implications?
Biya’s longevity in office has also raised concerns about succession and the potential for power struggles within the ruling party.
With no clear successor in sight, the prospect of Biya’s eventual departure from office poses significant risks for Cameroon’s stability.
