Cameroon’s 92‑year‑old President Paul Biya declared winner in contested election
Cameroon’s highest court confirmed on Monday that 92‑year‑old incumbent Paul Biya has secured a second consecutive term in the country’s presidential election, making him the world’s oldest sitting head of state.
The vote, held on Sunday, saw official turnout reported at around 70 percent, with the electoral commission announcing that Biya received roughly 70 percent of the vote. The results were validated by the Supreme Court, which cited compliance with the nation’s electoral code.
The announcement came amid a wave of demonstrations in Yaoundé and several regional capitals, where opposition supporters disputed the tally and called for a recount. Security forces responded with crowd‑control measures, and reports indicated that several protesters were injured and a handful detained.
Biya has ruled Cameroon since 1982, overseeing multiple constitutional amendments that extended presidential term limits. Critics have repeatedly questioned the transparency of past elections, citing irregularities and limited media access. The 2025 poll was monitored by a limited number of domestic observers, while most international missions were absent due to security concerns.
Government spokespeople said the election reflected the “will of the Cameroonian people” and urged calm. Opposition leaders, however, described the outcome as “a continuation of an entrenched regime” and urged the international community to pressure for electoral reforms. Human‑rights organizations called for an independent investigation into the clashes and for guarantees of political freedoms.
The newly elected president is expected to be inaugurated later this year, with his administration pledging continuity in economic and security policies. Analysts note that the ongoing unrest could affect foreign investment and regional stability, and they advise that dialogue between the government and dissenting groups will be essential to prevent further escalation.
