Paul Biya, the 92-year-old president of Cameroon and the world’s oldest serving head of state, has been sworn in for an eighth consecutive term following a fiercely disputed election that sparked violent unrest and international concern.
The ceremony, held on November 6, 2025, in the capital Yaoundé, came after weeks of protests and deadly clashes between security forces and demonstrators who alleged widespread electoral fraud. United Nations sources reported that at least 48 civilians were killed during the post-election unrest, though the government has yet to confirm these figures or respond to requests for comment.
In his inauguration speech, Biya acknowledged the challenges facing the Central African nation and the growing frustration among Cameroonians, particularly the youth. He pledged to restore peace and stability while blaming what he called “irresponsible politicians” and members of the diaspora for inciting violence and spreading misinformation. “The Republic will not be destabilized by those who seek to divide it,” Biya declared before a gathering of government officials, diplomats, and military leaders.
Despite his message of unity, the atmosphere in Cameroon remains tense. Many citizens question the credibility of the electoral process and the government’s handling of the protests, while opposition figures continue to contest the results.
Official results from the electoral commission showed Biya winning 53.66 percent of the vote, ahead of opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary, who garnered 35.19 percent. Bakary, however, rejected the results and declared himself the rightful winner shortly after partial counts suggested Biya was leading. According to reports, soldiers loyal to Bakary escorted him to an undisclosed location, a move that raised fears of a split within the military ranks. His camp has accused the ruling party of vote-rigging, intimidation, and censorship during the campaign period.
Observers from regional organizations noted irregularities in voter registration and limited transparency in vote counting but stopped short of declaring the entire process illegitimate.
Paul Biya has ruled Cameroon since 1982, making him one of the world’s longest-serving leaders. Over four decades in power, he has maintained a firm grip on the political system through a combination of constitutional reforms, patronage networks, and control over state institutions. Critics argue that his extended rule has stifled political competition and deepened social divisions, particularly between the country’s French-speaking majority and English-speaking minority regions, where separatist tensions remain unresolved.
Supporters, however, credit him with maintaining relative stability in a region often marred by coups and insurgencies. They also point to infrastructure development and economic resilience despite security challenges in the north and west.
The disputed election and ensuing violence have drawn global attention. Western governments and international rights groups have called for restraint and an independent investigation into reports of excessive force by security agencies.
As Biya embarks on another seven-year term, questions persist about his health, succession, and Cameroon’s political future. Analysts warn that unless meaningful reforms and reconciliation efforts are initiated, the unrest could deepen, further eroding public trust in government institutions. For now, Paul Biya remains firmly in control a veteran leader facing the test of time and legitimacy as Cameroon stands at a crossroads between continuity and change.