Cameroon’s 91-year-old President Paul Biya has made his first public appearance in six weeks, amid growing speculation regarding his health and unfounded rumors of his death.
State television broadcast footage on Monday afternoon showing Biya’s arrival at the airport in Yaoundé after a flight from Switzerland. His prolonged absence had led to rampant speculation about his wellbeing, prompting concerns and conjectures about his health.
The Cameroonian government had previously imposed a media ban on discussions about Biya’s health, designating it a matter of national security. Rumors surrounding his death have persisted intermittently for the last two decades.
In the footage aired, the president was seen dressed in his customary neat, conservative suit and appeared to be in good health. His last public engagement was on September 8, when he attended a China-Africa summit in Beijing.
Following Biya’s absence, the government faced mounting pressure to confirm his status. Officials eventually dismissed the death claims, asserting that the president was in good health and had been on a private visit to Geneva, a city he frequently visits.
Upon his landing, Biya was welcomed by state officials and members of the ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM). The visible mobilization of supporters on the streets of Yaoundé appeared to signal the government’s intent to dispel ongoing concerns regarding his health.
Biya’s reappearance may reignite discussions within his party regarding a potential bid for another seven-year term in the upcoming elections. While he has not publicly declared his intention to run, critics suggest his recent political activities indicate a desire to reinforce the ruling party’s control over power.
