Cameroon’s long-serving leader, Paul Biya, 92, has been officially declared the winner of the country’s presidential election, securing a historic eighth term in office. The announcement was made by the Constitutional Council on Monday, following a vote held earlier this month. Biya, who has ruled Cameroon since 1982, remains the world’s oldest sitting head of state. His re-election extends his more than four-decade grip on power in the Central African nation, where his party, the Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM), maintains firm control over political institutions.
According to official results, Biya won by a wide margin; though turnout was reportedly low, particularly in conflict-affected regions. The election was marred by opposition boycotts, allegations of fraud, and widespread reports of voter intimidation. Several opposition figures, including candidate Issa Tchiroma, have rejected the results, describing the election as “a political masquerade.” They have called for an independent audit and national dialogue to address what they describe as systemic electoral manipulation.
International observers noted limited transparency in vote tabulation and expressed concern over restrictions on political freedoms and the media during the campaign period. Biya’s continued rule comes as Cameroon faces mounting challenges including an ongoing separatist conflict in its English-speaking regions, economic stagnation, and growing public frustration over corruption and governance. Analysts say Biya’s latest victory deepens uncertainty over Cameroon’s political future. Many fear that the absence of a clear succession plan and the president’s advanced age could further destabilize the country in the coming years.
