Cameroon’s opposition figure Jean-Michel Nintcheu has formally requested the Constitutional Council to recognize the presidency as vacant following President Paul Biya’s extended absence from the country.

The President left for a private visit to Switzerland on June 7th and has yet to return to Yaoundé after 44 days abroad. This unusually prolonged absence has reignited discussions about the 93-year-old leader’s health. Political observers and the public are divided in their interpretations of this situation, with reactions varying significantly between different political factions.

In a Facebook post dated July 17th, opposition MP Jean-Michel Nintcheu explicitly called for constitutional intervention. “The Constitutional Council must formally acknowledge the vacancy at the highest level of state power,” he declared.

Ruling party responds with reassurance

The Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (RDPC), the governing party, has countered these claims with confidence. Christophe Mien Zok, RDPC’s propaganda director, stated: “The presidency is not vacant. The Lion hasn’t left.” Meanwhile, President Biya continues to conduct official duties from Geneva, including signing congratulatory messages to foreign counterparts such as French President Emmanuel Macron on Bastille Day.