Cameroon’s President Paul Biya has been absent from the country for over 40 days, sparking concerns among citizens and politicians alike. The absence, which was initially presented as a ‘private visit’ to Europe, has become an eternity, leaving many wondering if the president is truly in charge.
The lack of communication from the presidency has fueled speculation and rumors about the president’s health and fitness for office. While some have suggested that Biya may be struggling with his age and health, others argue that the president’s long-term absence raises questions about who is actually running the country.
Cameroon’s unique political landscape, which has allowed Biya to maintain power for over 40 years, has been cited as a major factor in the country’s current crisis. The fact that Biya has continued to maintain the same government team since 2019 has led some to describe it as ‘Biya all cranked up!’
The opposition and many Cameroonians are calling for Biya to be more present and accountable, but their efforts have been met with resistance from the government. As one commentator noted, ‘The power is not vacant, the lion is not gone,’ but the question remains, who is truly in charge?