Cameroonian officials have reaffirmed that President Paul Biya, 91, is in good health, dispelling rumors that have been circulating on both social and mainstream media. Biya, who has not made a public appearance since his official trip to China over a month ago, has prompted growing concern among citizens, many of whom are now demanding concrete proof of his well-being.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Samuel Mvondo Ayolo, director of the Civil Cabinet, emphasized that Biya is currently in Geneva, Switzerland, engaged in meetings and working for the country’s development. The statement was issued in response to unverified social media reports suggesting that the long-serving leader had passed away, though these claims lacked specific details.
Biya’s last public appearance was during the China-Africa leaders’ summit in Beijing, which took place more than a month ago. Despite the government’s reassurances, skepticism remains high among many citizens. Gloria Wirkom, a businesswoman in Yaoundé, voiced her concerns, insisting that Cameroonians have the right to know the true state of their president’s health.
Government spokesperson Rene Emmanuel Sadi dismissed the rumors as baseless, describing them as pure speculation. He reiterated that Biya continues to work on the well-being of Cameroon, no matter where he is. Sadi confirmed that Biya stayed briefly in Europe after the summit in China and remains attentive to national issues.
However, some citizens,have criticized the government for waiting until rumors had spread before addressing the president’s absence. Neba argued that it is the public’s right to know the whereabouts of their leader, alive or dead, and urged the government to provide clearer information.
While Cameroonian officials have not confirmed whether Biya will make a public appearance during his time in Geneva, speculation continues about his plans for the future. As the world’s oldest sitting leader, Biya has ruled Cameroon for over four decades, and his potential candidacy for the 2025 presidential elections remains uncertain.
