Paul Biya’s return confirmed as Cameroon awaits his comeback

Cameroon — After nearly two months of silence, Cameroonian authorities have broken their silence. Government officials confirm President Paul Biya remains alive and is set to return, as health and whereabouts rumors intensify.

Cameroon’s government has addressed the prolonged absence of President Paul Biya, who has not appeared in public since June 7. With public concern mounting over his whereabouts and well-being, Minister of Communication and government spokesperson René Emmanuel Sadi took the podium on August 2 to deliver a reassuring message to the nation.

The official stressed that no constitutional power void exists, emphasizing that only the Constitutional Council can declare such a situation. « The Constitutional Council has not issued any declaration of a power void at the helm of the state. President Paul Biya is alive. President Paul Biya has not resigned, » he stated.

Sadi’s statements also aimed to counter calls from opposition figures, who have for weeks demanded official recognition of a power void due to the president’s extended absence. When pressed for details on Biya’s current location and return date, the spokesperson remained cautious but hinted at an imminent comeback. « I cannot specify the exact date of President Paul Biya’s return. Even if I knew, it would not be my place to announce it here. What I can confirm is that he will be back very soon, » he told reporters.

At 93, Paul Biya has led Cameroon since 1982, making him the world’s longest-serving current head of state. His departure from Yaoundé on June 7 was officially described as a « brief private stay in Europe » alongside his wife, Chantal Biya. Since then, no public appearances have been recorded—a first since he assumed office.

Despite the uncertainty, the presidency continues to issue official decrees bearing Biya’s signature, with multiple documents dated July 22 in Yaoundé. The release of these documents sparked online debates, with some questioning their authenticity and fueling further speculation about the president’s health and location.