Cameroon's Millennials and Gen Z Face Eighth Term for 92-Year-Old Leader
YAOUNDE, Cameroon - As the central African country prepares to hold its presidential election on Sunday, millions of young Cameroonians are expressing frustration with the prospect of another term for 92-year-old President Paul Biya. The world's oldest president has ruled Cameroon for over three decades, and many in the country's youth population feel that he is too old to govern effectively.
Nghobo Elvis Nghobo, a 34-year-old vendor at a market in Yaounde, said he would not be voting in Sunday's election. "He is already too old to govern, and it's boring knowing only him as president," Nghobo told The Associated Press. "The education system here favors the children of the elites, and that's why I couldn't get into any professional school."
Nghobo's sentiments are shared by many young Cameroonians, who make up a significant portion of the country's population. According to the United Nations, Cameroon has one of the youngest populations in Africa, with a median age of 18.
The presidential election is seen as a foregone conclusion for Biya, who has been in power since 1982. He has won every election he has contested, often with more than 70% of the vote. However, many Cameroonians are questioning the legitimacy of his rule and the fairness of the electoral process.
Critics argue that Biya's government has failed to address the country's pressing issues, including corruption, poverty, and unemployment. "The current government has not done enough to improve the lives of young people," said Dr. Emmanuel Ngwafor, a professor at the University of Yaounde. "We need a new generation of leaders who can bring about change and development."
Biya's supporters, however, argue that he has brought stability and security to the country, which was plagued by civil war in the 1990s. They also point out that Biya has implemented several development projects, including infrastructure improvements and social welfare programs.
As Cameroon prepares for Sunday's election, many young people are calling for change. "We want a new president who will listen to our concerns and address our needs," said Nghobo. "We don't want another term of the same old politics."
The outcome of the election is likely to have significant implications for Cameroon's future. If Biya wins, it could cement his legacy as one of Africa's longest-serving leaders. However, if a new candidate emerges victorious, it could signal a shift towards greater accountability and transparency in government.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
*Reporting by Fortune.*
