Cameroon’s long-serving President Paul Biya, now 92, has announced he’ll seek an eighth term in the upcoming October 12 election, sparking a wave of backlash across the country and social media.
Biya, who has ruled since 1982, made the declaration on X, saying he’s ready for “new responsibilities.” His move reignites fears of a looming succession crisis in a country that has had only two presidents since independence.
In 2004, Biya mocked rumors of his death, saying, “I’ll see them in 20 years.” Now, 21 years later, he’s still in power—despite being rarely seen in public.
Critics argue he no longer runs the country and is dangerously out of touch. “Most of us don’t believe Biya is actually in charge,” said tech entrepreneur Rebecca Enonchong.
Cameroon faces economic woes, Anglophone separatist violence, and jihadist threats. Yet Biya—after scrapping term limits in 2008—continues his grip on power, with opponents calling for fresh leadership.
A front-page headline from Le Messager captured the mood: “Nous sommes foutus” (“We are screwed”).
