Government denies power vacuum amid president’s extended absence

In response to circulating rumors about the health and whereabouts of Cameroon’s long-serving leader, government spokesperson René Emmanuel Sadi has issued a firm reassurance. Speaking on the record, he confirmed that President Paul Biya remains alive and continues to fulfill his constitutional duties, despite spending over 56 days in Switzerland.

The minister of Communication and government spokesperson clarified that there is no vacancy at the head of state level, dismissing speculation about a potential power transition. He stated that President Biya will return to Cameroon in the near future, though he declined to specify an exact date. This, he emphasized, rules out any discussion of an interim leadership scenario.

Clarifying the president’s health and location

Addressing concerns over the president’s health, Sadi acknowledged that President Biya recently underwent a medical procedure. He specified that the president is currently in Geneva but is not hospitalized. The spokesperson avoided disclosing the nature of the intervention, citing confidentiality and respect for medical privacy.

Despite the prolonged absence, Sadi emphasized that Cameroon’s state institutions are functioning normally. He noted that senior government officials are actively carrying out their responsibilities, underscoring the continued stability of the administration.

Constitutional safeguards prevent power vacuum claims

The government spokesperson pointed out that the question of presidential vacancy cannot legally arise under current circumstances. He explained that only the Constitutional Council holds the authority to determine such a situation—and it has not issued any such declaration. Therefore, any claims suggesting a leadership gap lack constitutional basis.

This official stance aims to dispel uncertainty and reaffirm the continuity of governance in Cameroon, even as the president remains abroad for medical reasons.