President Paul Biya of Cameroon has not been seen publicly since June 7, a date when the official newspaper, Cameroon Tribune, announced his departure for a “short private stay in Europe.” More than 50 days have elapsed since then, yet no further details have been provided regarding his current whereabouts or an anticipated return date. This prolonged silence from the government, coupled with the 93-year-old Cameroonian president’s advanced age, is fueling widespread speculation and growing anxiety about the stability and continuity of the state.

Opposition parties have voiced their alarm, describing the situation as a “power vacuum,” a government operating on “autopilot,” or even functioning through “telework.” These concerns highlight critical questions: What provisions does the Constitution outline for an extended presidential absence? And could this ongoing situation lead to significant impasses in the management of crucial national affairs?