Cameroon — After nearly two months out of the public eye, Cameroonian authorities have broken their silence. The government confirms that President Paul Biya remains alive and announces his upcoming return, amid escalating speculation about his health.

Government breaks silence on Paul Biya’s absence

The Cameroonian government has addressed the prolonged disappearance of President Paul Biya, who has been absent from public view since June 7th. Facing growing rumors and public concern, Communications Minister and government spokesperson René Emmanuel Sadi took to the airwaves on August 2nd to reassure citizens.

No power vacuum, government insists

In a firm rebuttal to claims of a power vacuum, the government spokesperson emphasized that only the Constitutional Council can legally declare such a situation. « The Constitutional Council has not ruled to declare a power vacuum at the helm of the State. President Paul Biya is alive. President Paul Biya has not resigned, » he stated.

Opposition demands transparency amid prolonged absence

The government’s statement also responds to repeated calls from opposition figures, who have for weeks demanded recognition of a power vacuum due to the president’s extended absence. When pressed on the president’s current location and return date, the spokesperson remained cautious but hinted at an imminent return. « I cannot tell you exactly when President Paul Biya will return. And even if I knew, it wouldn’t be my place to announce it here. I can at least say that he will be back very soon, » he told the media.

Decades-long leadership amid growing questions

Now 93 years old, Paul Biya has led Cameroon since 1982, making him the world’s longest-serving incumbent head of state. His departure from Yaoundé on June 7th was officially described as a « brief private stay in Europe » alongside his wife, Chantal Biya. Since then, no public appearances have been recorded—a first in his decades-long tenure.

Official decrees fuel speculation

The presidency has continued to release official decrees signed in the president’s name. On July 22nd, multiple decrees bearing the « Yaoundé » location as the signing place were made public, further stoking debates online. Some social media users questioned the authenticity of these documents, deepening concerns over the president’s health and whereabouts.