Cameroon’s 91-year-old President, Paul Biya, has reaffirmed his commitment to serving the nation in his New Year address, signaling his intention to seek an eighth term in the 2025 presidential elections. Biya, who has held power since 1982, is the world’s oldest serving president and will be 92 at the time of the vote.
Speculation over Biya’s health has fueled public debate, especially after his recent absence from public events. Despite government reassurances about his well-being, a 2024 ban on media discussions about his health has raised concerns over press freedom.
In his New Year’s address, Biya pledged to tackle the “immense challenges” facing Cameroonians in 2025. “We will, as in the past – together – turn these challenges into opportunities. Together, we will continue to move forward with determination, in security and peace,” he said, further confirming his intention to run for an eighth term. Presidential elections are scheduled for later this year, and Biya remains the sole candidate for the ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM).
However, critics argue that another term for the ailing leader is unrealistic. Archbishop of Douala, Mgr Samuel Kleda, told Radio France Internationale (RFI) that Biya’s candidacy in the October 2025 elections “is not realistic.”
Elections Cameroon (Elecam) announced that 7,845,622 Cameroonians had registered to vote as of December 30, 2024. The voter registration window reopened on January 1 and will run until August 31, in accordance with Section 74(2) of the electoral law.
Biya, who has served as president since November 1982, acknowledged the pain of Cameroonians grappling with poor infrastructure and lack of social amenities. He expressed his commitment to improving living conditions and ensuring access to basic services. At the same time, Biya stressed the need for improved governance, including a stronger fight against corruption and misappropriation of public funds. He warned that appropriate measures would be taken against those guilty of such offenses.
With over 75% of Cameroon’s 28 million citizens born during Biya’s rule, the President continues to hold significant influence over the country’s political landscape as he prepares for his eighth bid for the presidency.
