Cameroon’s long-serving leader, President Paul Biya, is seeking an unprecedented eighth term in Sunday’s election, a move that could extend his rule until nearly 100 years of age. The 92-year-old leader, who has been in power since 1982, faces growing criticism over his decades-long rule, deteriorating infrastructure, and the government’s failure to address citizens’ needs.
Why Is Paul Biya Still Running After 43 Years in Power?
Biya’s campaign officially launched this week in Maroua, where loyal supporters waved banners reading “The Kanuri community supports Paul Biya.” Despite rarely appearing in public due to ongoing speculation about his health, the president thanked citizens for their continued support “despite the false omens, the slander, the fabrications.”
During the rally, Biya acknowledged persistent challenges facing the country, from poor road conditions to unreliable electricity. “I am well aware of the problems that are of concern to you. I am aware of the unfulfilled expectations that make you doubt the future,” he said. “I can assure you that these problems are not impossible to overcome.”
Since scrapping presidential term limits in 2008, Biya has consistently secured re-election with wide margins. His government has long denied accusations of electoral fraud, ballot manipulation, and using the judiciary to silence opposition figures. Maurice Kamto, his main rival in the 2018 election, was disqualified this time, further solidifying Biya’s path to another victory.
Can the Former Spokesperson Turn the Tide?
The most notable challenger this election cycle is Issa Tchiroma Bakary, a former government spokesperson and employment minister who defected from Biya’s camp in June. Tchiroma has accused the ruling party of corruption and economic mismanagement, saying, “Their failure is everywhere. All Cameroonians are fed up with their management.”
His rallies have drawn some of the largest crowds of the campaign season, especially among younger voters eager for change. However, analysts caution that strong urban support may not be enough. “One is left with the impression that if this mobilisation is transferred into the ballot box, then change is coming,” said political analyst Pippie Hugues. “However, the reverse might be true. We have seen such mobilisation in 2018, and nothing changed.”
Raoul Sumo Tayo, a senior researcher at the Institute for Security Studies in Pretoria, added that while Tchiroma’s campaign is energetic, Biya’s party still dominates rural areas through patronage networks. “The ruling party is likely to be declared the winner of the election,” he said. “Nevertheless, Tchiroma has demonstrated a strong ability to mobilise support to contest the results.”
With twelve candidates in the race and no provision for run-offs, Cameroon’s election will be decided by whoever secures the most votes. Official results are expected within 15 days, but for many Cameroonians, especially the country’s younger generation, the outcome may feel like history repeating itself.
By Yockshard Enyendi
