Cameroon’s 92-year-old leader could rule until 99

Cameroon has concluded its presidential election, with 92-year-old incumbent Paul Biya seeking an unprecedented eighth term in office. Biya, the world’s oldest sitting head of state, has ruled Cameroon since 1982, consolidating his grip over the state and the Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM). If re-elected, Biya would remain in office until the age of 99, making him not only the oldest sitting president but potentially the oldest to ever serve a full term.The Constitutional Council approved 12 candidates for the presidential election, while prominent opposition leader Maurice Kamto of the Cameroon Renaissance Movement was disqualified, limiting the competitiveness of the race.

Approximately 8 million Cameroonians were registered to vote. The election used a single-round system. Votes were counted at local polling stations, then transmitted to regional offices before being validated by the National Elections Observatory (ELECAM). Observers and opposition parties have raised concerns about the transparency and fairness of the process, citing Biya’s control over state institutions and media.

Several key government officials and party figures support Biya and maintain the party’s cohesion. Ferdinand Ngoh Ngoh, aged around 73, serves as Secretary-General of the Presidency and is considered Biya’s closest confidant, controlling access to the president and key party machinery. Jean Nkuete, approximately 75, is Secretary-General of CPDM and oversees party strategy and operations. Hamadou Moustapha, long-time ally since 1975, serves as Minister in charge of Special Duties at the Presidency. Most senior CPDM figures are in their 70s, reflecting the dominance of the older generation within the party.

Biya’s age and sporadic public appearances have raised questions about his health. He has been in power longer than many Cameroonians have been alive, Millennials, GenZ, and Gen Alpha.In 2024, he spent time in Geneva, Switzerland, leading to speculation. The government has banned media discussion of the president’s health, citing it as a national security matter and threatening legal consequences for violations. Despite these restrictions, Biya asserts he is fit to continue his duties.

The opposition, while present, remains fragmented and faces challenges including legal obstacles, harassment, and disqualification of key figures. The media environment is heavily influenced by the state, with national television, radio, and newspapers largely promoting Biya and limiting opposition coverage. Independent media operates under government scrutiny, and social media has become a platform for political debate, particularly among younger voters.

Cameroon’s median age is just 18, and nearly 60% of the population is under 25. This generational divide has made it difficult for Biya to connect with young voters, many of whom are disillusioned with the political process. His campaign has attempted to use social media to reach them, but with limited success.

Biya removed presidential term limits in 2008 and has survived a coup attempt, extended presidential terms, and abolished term limits, all while maintaining his position.

Campaigning was low-key, with few public rallies and extensive online promotion. Analysts predict Biya’s re-election due to his entrenched control over state institutions, despite public frustration and concerns over his health. Voters in Douala expressed a desire for change, with some saying they would like to see a new face, having known no president other than Biya. The final vote count and official results are awaited, but Biya’s longstanding influence and the fragmentation of the opposition make a major upset unlikely.

Cameroon is not alone in this pattern. Other long-serving leaders include Zimbabwe’s Robert Mugabe (1980–2017), Equatorial Guinea’s president (since 1982), Uganda’s president (since 1986), Tajikistan’s president (since 1992), Belarus (since 1994), Brunei’s Sultan (since 1967).

Globally, the average age of world leaders has risen from the mid-50s in the 1970s to around 62 today. This may be due to younger generations’ disinterest in politics, the pandemic’s demand for experienced leadership, or rising geopolitical tensions.