Paul Biya, 92, the world’s oldest head of state, said he will run for re-election again in October in an attempt to extend his 43-year term.
“Don’t worry, my determination to serve you matches the urgency of the challenges we face,” He said in his post on X.
He added that his decision to implement the eighth term came after “number and persistent” calls from people in Cameroon and across the diaspora.
Bia’s government criticizes corruption, corruption, bad governance and failure to respond to security challenges. His health and governance abilities have also attracted people’s attention.
his Last year, the public’s absence for more than six weeks led to speculation He has passed away with rumors about his happiness and unfounded rumours.
His candidacy is expected to be officially confirmed ahead of Sunday’s social media post.
Biya has never lost elections since he came to power in 1982, and if he wins another seven years, he can serve as president until he is close to 100 years old.
Cameroon has grown calls from both internal and external to demand his resignation and give way to the fresh leadership of Central African countries.
His candidacy comes after a recent political divorce from major allies in the northern region, which is crucial to help get votes in previous elections in the country.
Two of them – famous minister Issa Tchiroma Bakary and former Prime Minister Bello Bouba Maigari – Recent exit from the Ruling Alliance And separately announced plans to participate in the election.
Tchiroma said last month that his Bia government “shattered” public trust and that he is turning to rivals.
Several opposition figures including 2018 runner-up Maurice Immo and Joshua Osih, Arere Muna and Cabral Libii also announced their candidates.
However, members of Cameroon’s People’s Democratic Movement and other supporters have publicly called on Bia to seek another term since last year. He is already a de facto candidate for party leader.
Biya lifted the term limit in 2008, allowing him to seek the presidency indefinitely.
He won the 2018 election with more than 71% of the vote despite opposition groups accusing the general irregular process.
