YAOUNDÉ – Cameroon’s President Paul Biya has announced he will run for an eighth consecutive term in the upcoming presidential elections set for October 12, 2025.
The declaration came through a post on his official social media account on Sunday, confirming long-standing speculation about his intention to remain in office. At 92, Biya is Africa’s second-longest serving leader and currently the oldest head of state in the world.
“I am a candidate in the presidential election,” he wrote. “Rest assured that my determination to serve you matches the urgency of the challenges we face.”
Biya first assumed office in 1982 following the resignation of his predecessor Ahmadou Ahidjo. If re-elected, he would serve until he is nearly 100.
His announcement has sparked fresh debate across Cameroon and beyond, particularly given persistent concerns over his health and fitness for office. Last year, Biya was out of public view for 42 days, fuelling rumours of illness. The government later denied any health concerns and warned that any public speculation was a national security issue.
The move to run again comes despite mounting pressure from opposition parties and civil society groups, who say his decades-long rule has contributed to political stagnation and economic underperformance. Critics have also pointed to the escalating Anglophone crisis, worsening insecurity in the north due to Boko Haram, and increasing cost-of-living burdens faced by citizens.
Biya’s Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) has already begun mobilising support, with senior figures publicly backing his candidacy since last year. Meanwhile, at least four opposition leaders have declared their intention to run, including 2018 runner-up Maurice Kamto, Joshua Osih, Akere Muna, and Cabral Libii.
Biya’s 2018 victory, which delivered 71.28% of the vote, was marred by allegations of irregularities. He removed presidential term limits in 2008, allowing him to seek re-election indefinitely.
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