Cameroon’s Constitutional Council announced on Monday that 92-year-old President Paul Biya has won the October 12 presidential election, securing 53.66% of the votes and extending his 43-year rule with an eighth term.
This makes Biya the world’s oldest serving head of state, triggering widespread protests and allegations of electoral fraud.
Biya defeated the former minister Issa Tchiroma Bakary of the Front for the National Salvation of Cameroon (FSNC), who received 35.19% of the votes.
Bakary called the official results a “masquerade,” claiming the government manipulated the electoral process.
The election was marred by violence, particularly in the Anglophone regions.
Protests broke out in major cities like Douala and Garoua following the announcement today.
At least four demonstrators were killed by security forces in Douala, with over 100 arrests made.
Many young Cameroonians expressed frustration with what they see as an out-of-touch leadership.
Biya’s daughter, Brenda Biya, had previously publicly opposed his re-election in a viral video, urging citizens not to vote for him due to years of economic hardship.
Biya’s victory could allow him to remain in power until age 99, raising concerns about stability as he often travels abroad and rumors about his health persist.
This election highlights a generational divide in Cameroon, where the median age is under 20, yet leadership is dominated by an aging elite.
Administrator and Writer
