Cameroon's 92-Year-Old President Poised to Extend His Rule Amid Separatist Crisis

Cameroon's President Set for Another Term Amid Separatist Crisis YAOUNDE, Cameroon - Paul Biya, the world's oldest head of state at 92, is poised to secure another term in office after Cameroon went to the polls on Sunday. Despite calls for him to retire due to his advanced age and declining health, Biya has dismissed concerns and remains the favourite to win an eighth term as president. Biya, who has been in power since 1982, has maintained a tight grip on the central African country's politics. His re-election bid is seen as a continuation of his long-standing rule, which has been marked by allegations of human rights abuses and suppression of opposition voices. In a statement to French radio RFI in late September, Grégoire Owona, labour minister and secretary general of the ruling party, praised Biya's leadership. "Our candidate is in great shape...and he is capable of continuing what he has started," Owona said. The election features 11 opposition candidates vying for the presidency against Biya. However, many analysts believe that the fractured opposition will struggle to mount a credible challenge against the incumbent leader. Biya's prolonged rule has been marked by significant policy changes, including the introduction of a new constitution in 1996 and the establishment of a multiparty system. Despite these reforms, critics argue that Biya's regime remains authoritarian and lacks transparency. The separatist crisis in Cameroon's English-speaking regions has also raised concerns about Biya's leadership. The conflict has resulted in thousands of deaths and displacement of civilians. Many have called for Biya to step down due to his handling of the crisis. However, supporters of Biya argue that he has maintained stability and security in the country despite the challenges posed by separatist groups. "President Biya has done a lot for Cameroon," said Jean-Pierre Nsame, a 35-year-old voter from Yaounde. "He has brought peace and development to our country." The outcome of the election is expected to be announced on Monday. If Biya secures another term, he will become one of the longest-serving leaders in African history. In the lead-up to the election, international observers have expressed concerns about the fairness and transparency of the process. The European Union has deployed a team of observers to monitor the vote, while the United States has also sent a delegation to observe the election. The outcome of the election will be closely watched by regional and global leaders, who are keenly interested in the stability and security of Cameroon. *Reporting by Theguardian.*