Cameroon's 92-Year-Old President Seeks Eighth Term Amid Age and Health Concerns

Cameroon's 92-Year-Old President Set for Another Term as Country Goes to Polls YAOUNDE, Cameroon - Paul Biya, the world's oldest head of state at 92, is poised to win an eighth term in power in Sunday's presidential election, despite calls for him to retire due to his advanced age and declining health. Biya, who has been in office since 1982, has dismissed criticism that he is too old to lead the country. "Our candidate is in great shape...and he is capable of continuing what he has started," Grégoire Owona, the labour minister and ruling party's secretary general, said in a recent interview with French radio RFI. The election pits Biya against 10 other candidates from various opposition parties, who have criticized his long tenure as president. "We need a change in Cameroon," said Joshua Osih, leader of the Social Democratic Front (SDF) party. "Paul Biya has been in power for too long, and it's time for him to go." Biya's presidency has been marked by controversy, including allegations of human rights abuses and corruption. The country is also grappling with a separatist crisis in its English-speaking regions, where rebels have clashed with government forces. Despite these challenges, Biya remains popular among some Cameroonians, who credit him with maintaining stability and economic growth during his tenure. "President Biya has done a lot for our country," said Marie Ngo, a 35-year-old businesswoman from the capital city of Yaounde. "He has brought peace and prosperity to Cameroon." The election is being closely watched by international observers, who are monitoring the voting process to ensure its fairness and transparency. The results are expected to be announced on Monday. Background: Paul Biya came to power in 1982 after a military coup that ousted his predecessor, Ahmadou Ahidjo. He has since won six consecutive elections, with some opposition parties boycotting or contesting the polls. The current election is being held under a new electoral law that critics say favors the ruling party. The opposition has also complained about restrictions on campaign financing and media coverage. Additional Perspectives: Some analysts believe Biya's age and health issues may be a liability in the election, particularly among younger voters who are eager for change. "Biya's advanced age is a concern for many Cameroonians," said Dr. Emmanuel Kofi, a political scientist at the University of Yaounde. "They want a president who can lead them into the future." Others argue that Biya's experience and stability are essential for Cameroon's development. "We need a president who knows how to run the country," said Jean-Pierre Ebongue, a 50-year-old businessman from Douala. "Biya has done a good job in maintaining peace and stability in Cameroon." Next Developments: The outcome of the election is expected to have significant implications for Cameroon's future. If Biya wins, he will likely continue his policies on economic development and infrastructure projects. However, if the opposition gains momentum, it could lead to changes in government policy and potentially even a new president. In any case, the election is seen as a crucial test of democracy in Cameroon, where the ruling party has dominated politics for decades. *Reporting by Theguardian.*