Cameroun: l’absence prolongée de Paul Biya continue de susciter interrogations et inquiétudes

President Paul Biya’s two-month absence marks an unprecedented period away from Cameroon, occurring just eight months into his eighth consecutive term.

This prolonged absence, though unusual, is not unlawful, according to Benoit Ndong Soumeth, a minister at the Presidency. He acknowledged the public’s emotional desire for updates on their leader, stating, « The Minister Director of the Civil Cabinet has affirmed that everything is fine. His assurance is the most reliable way to calm any concerns. There is no issue, and we are not facing an exceptional or urgent situation ».

Conversely, Roger Justin Noah, who serves as the first deputy secretary-general and interim national communication secretary for Maurice Kamto’s opposition party, the MRC, views the lack of clarity surrounding the president’s European stay as a profound disrespect towards the Cameroonian populace.

The Cameroonian people have a right to be informed

Noah questioned the rationale behind what he termed « rigging the electoral process » only for the president to spend extended periods outside the nation. He emphasized, « If the president is experiencing health issues, the Cameroonian people are entitled to this information. There should be no ambiguity regarding the Head of State’s well-being ».

Cabral Libii, who secured third place in the October presidential election, dismissed the ongoing controversy as unproductive. He pointed to the first quarter of 2027 as the crucial period, stating, « I believe there’s no significant difference between his time spent abroad and his presence in Cameroon. Legally speaking, Cameroon currently faces a legislative void. My message to everyone is clear: with legislative and municipal elections approaching, we must turn out in large numbers to vote against this regime ».

The PCRN deputy expressed hope for a potential shift in the parliamentary majority, which could then lead to amendments in the legal framework governing presidential stays outside the country.