By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
Cameroon’s senior officials have reiterated that President Paul Biya, who has not appeared in public since September 8, is in “excellent” health, countering rampant speculation regarding his wellbeing. Following his absence from key events, including the United Nations General Assembly, the director of the civil cabinet, Samuel Mvondo Ayolo, stated, “The head of state continues to exercise his duties in Geneva” and condemned the “mischievous individuals” spreading rumors about the president’s health and potential death.
Critics have long pointed out Biya’s frequent absences, particularly his extended stays in Switzerland. A 2018 report indicated that since taking office in 1982, he has spent approximately four-and-a-half years abroad. Government spokesperson René Sadi dismissed concerns about Biya’s health as “pure fantasy,” asserting he would return to Cameroon “in the next few days.”
After 42 years in power, Biya is one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders, but his tenure has faced scrutiny due to increasing corruption and a prolonged secessionist conflict that has claimed over 6,000 lives in the country’s west.
Source: BBC News
