Cameroonian President Paul Biya, 92, Makes Rare Campaign Appearance Amid Health Concerns
Maroua, Cameroon – October 8, 2025 – Cameroonian President Paul Biya, 92, launched his campaign for an eighth term in office with a rally in Maroua, capital of the Far North region, on tuesday, October 7th. The appearance ended months of speculation regarding his health and whereabouts, fueled by persistent rumors of illness and even disappearance.
A notable security presence – police and soldiers stationed every fifty meters - preceded Biya’s arrival, blocking traffic along the route from Yaoundé’s Nsimalen international airport. This deployment is a long-standing signal to residents of the president’s movements. Biya has been in power for forty-three years, leading the Central African nation since 1982.
The campaign stop followed a period of intense public uncertainty. Alarming reports concerning Biya’s health circulated for months, often amplified by ambiguous statements from government ministers who appeared to have limited information. One instance included a call for a national prayer mass. Biya briefly quelled concerns earlier this year by appearing at a New Year’s event for the diplomatic corps, but his continued absence from public life maintained the speculation.
