The president of Cameroon, Paul Biya, the oldest head of state in the world at age 92, has officially announced his intention to seek re -election in the presidential elections of October 12, 2025.
Biya first assumed the position in 1982 after the resignation of former President Ahmmou Ahidjo.
Now he has ruled for more than 42 years.
His decision to run for an eighth mandate was shared on Sunday through a publication in his official X.
Biya wrote: “I have the assurance that my determination to serve him coincides with the urgency of the challenges we face.”
He added that his decision followed the so -called “numerous and insistent” of citizens in Cameroon and the diaspora.
Although supporters prove it to maintain stability, critics argue that their long government has harmed economic growth, weakened to democratic institutions and encouraged corruption.
His administration has been frequently accused of poor management and not addressing the growing security threats throughout the country.
In 2008, Biya eliminated the constitutional term limits, which allowed him to run for an indefinite position.
He won the 2018 elections with more than 71% of the votes, although the opposition matches alleged generalized electoral fraud.
Biya health concerns have persisted. In 2024, he disappeared from public hearing for 42 days, which caused speculation about his ability to govern.
Upon his return, the government dismissed all health concerns and declared that its condition was a matter of national security. The public discussion in this regard was prohibited.
Despite continuous concerns, Biya is still in control.
His personnel chief handles most of the daily tasks, while governing a large extent by closed doors.
Sunday's announcement is expected to revive the debate, both local and internationally, on the future leadership of Cameroon.
Several opposition figures have also declared their intentions to function in the 2025 vote.
They include Maurice Kamto of the Renaissance Movement of Cameroon (CRM), who was second in 2018.
Others are the leader of the Social Democratic Front (SDF) Joshua Osih, the anti -corruption lawyer Akere Muna and Cabral Libii of the Cameroon Party for National Reconciliation (PCRN).
With the election approaching, Cameroon faces increasing questions about power, succession and democracy under one of the oldest leaders in Africa.
(Business Insider)
Read too Main stories OF Nigerian tribe