In Summary
Cameroon’s Paul Biya, the world’s oldest president at 92, has been re-elected to an eighth term with 53.66% of the vote. Opposition leader Issa Tchiroma disputes the results, declaring himself the rightful winner.
In a historic yet controversial election result, Cameroon’s 92-year-old president, Paul Biya, has been re-elected to an eighth term, extending his leadership until 2032. The Constitutional Council announced that Biya secured 53.66% of the vote, defeating opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary, who garnered 35.2%.
The announcement cements Biya’s position as the world’s oldest serving head of state and one of Africa’s longest-ruling leaders. His re-election marks more than 42 years in power, since he first assumed the presidency in 1982 following Ahmadou Ahidjo’s resignation.
A Divided Nation Reacts
Biya’s victory was met with mixed reactions across Cameroon. Supporters in Yaoundé and Biya’s home region of the South Province celebrated with songs and parades, praising his leadership and political stability. “He has given us peace and continuity,” one supporter said during celebrations outside the Unity Palace.
However, opposition figures and civil society groups have raised concerns about the credibility of the election. Issa Tchiroma, leader of the National Front for Democracy and Progress (NFDP), claimed victory before the official results were released, accusing the ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) of massive electoral fraud and vote manipulation.
Tchiroma has called for “a peaceful but firm resistance” and appealed to the international community to “stand with Cameroonians seeking democratic change.”
International observers, including missions from the African Union (AU) and the European Union (EU), have expressed concerns over the transparency of the electoral process. Reports of limited access for observers, voter intimidation, and media restrictions have raised questions about the fairness of the vote.
The United States and France, both long-time partners of Cameroon, have urged calm and restraint while calling on authorities to address opposition grievances through lawful means.
Biya’s Legacy and Future Challenges
Paul Biya’s re-election underscores his unwavering grip on power despite ongoing political and security challenges. Cameroon faces multiple crises, including the Anglophone conflict in the Northwest and Southwest regions, economic instability, and youth unemployment.
Analysts say Biya’s next term will likely focus on maintaining political stability and managing succession plans amid growing calls for generational change.
“At 92, Biya’s continued rule highlights the deep-rooted power structures in Cameroon’s political system,” says political analyst Jules Mvondo. “The key question now is not just who governs, but what happens after him.”
The Road to 2032: What Lies Ahead
As Biya prepares to lead until 2032, many Cameroonians are divided between hope and fatigue. For some, his steady leadership represents continuity in a volatile region; for others, it symbolizes decades of political stagnation and unfulfilled promises.
While celebrations continue in some parts of the country, opposition supporters remain defiant, vowing to continue pressing for democratic reforms and electoral justice.
With his latest victory, Paul Biya’s presidency now spans eight consecutive terms, making him one of the most enduring political figures in global history — and a symbol of Africa’s ongoing struggle between longevity in leadership and the call for democratic renewal.