Cameroon’s Biya, World’s Oldest President, Sworn In for Eighth Term Amid Protests

Cameroon’s long-serving leader, Paul Biya, was on Thursday sworn in for an unprecedented eighth term as president, extending his 43-year rule over the Central African nation. His re-election followed a highly disputed October 12 vote that triggered widespread protests and a violent government crackdown.

At 92 years old, Biya remains the world’s oldest head of state. According to official results, he secured 53.7 percent of the votes, defeating his closest rival, Issa Tchiroma Bakary, a former government minister, who garnered 35.2 percent.

The swearing-in ceremony took place at the Cameroonian Parliament in Yaoundé, attended by domestic political figures but notably absent of foreign dignitaries.

“I will spare no effort to remain worthy of the trust you have placed in me,” Biya declared during the ceremony. “I am fully aware of the gravity of the challenges before us and the deep frustrations felt by our citizens.”

Disputed Results and Rising Tensions

Tchiroma, once an ally of Biya before joining the opposition, has rejected the official results, claiming victory himself.
“There are now two presidents, the one elected by the people (me) and the one appointed by the Constitutional Council (you know who),” he wrote on social media Wednesday, urging supporters to continue peaceful resistance.

Following the announcement of results on October 27, opposition demonstrations were met with a heavy-handed response from security forces, leading to several deaths, according to local reports.

Civil Unrest and Crackdown

Tchiroma has since called for nationwide civil disobedience, including “dead city” protests to paralyse commercial and public activities. The movement has gained traction in cities like Garoua and Douala, though life in the capital, Yaoundé, largely continues as normal.

The government has accused the opposition of inciting insurrection and hinted at possible legal action against Tchiroma. It confirmed casualties from the unrest but has not released official figures.

The International Crisis Group (ICG) warned that with both sides refusing to compromise, Cameroon faces “a growing risk of instability.”

Meanwhile, the European Union, African Union, and the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights have all condemned the violent suppression of protests and called for an independent investigation.

A 43-Year Grip on Power

Paul Biya has ruled Cameroon since 1982, making him one of the world’s longest-serving leaders. His administration has been marked by tight political control, limited civil freedoms, and ongoing conflicts with separatist groups in the country’s English-speaking regions.

Despite international criticism, Biya continues to maintain a firm grip on power in a nation struggling with economic disparity, youth unemployment, and security challenges.

With this latest term, Biya is expected to remain in power until 2032, further cementing his position as one of Africa’s most enduring, and controversial leaders.