Cameroon’s upcoming elections may see 91-year-old President Paul Biya running for an eighth consecutive term, raising concerns about his age and health. Despite opposition claims, analysts suggest that factions supporting Biya are insincere and that genuine alternatives are incapable of unifying. Economic challenges continue, exacerbated by corruption and civil unrest. Biya’s re-election could perpetuate these issues absent a formidable opposition.
As Cameroon prepares for elections this year, President Paul Biya, 91, is expected to run for an unprecedented eighth term, solidifying his status as Africa’s longest-serving leader. Political analyst Dr. John Akpo indicated that Biya’s candidacy is almost assured despite concerns regarding his health, stating, “There is no doubt about President Paul Biya’s candidacy for the next election.”
Elvis Ngolle Ngolle, from Biya’s Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement, acknowledged preparations for the election, hinting that discussions regarding succession are premature.
Biya’s forty-two-year reign raises questions about his capability to govern effectively at 99 if re-elected by the next elections in 2032.
While Biya has garnered bizarre support from some opposition groups, analysts like Akpo criticize these factions, asserting they were created by the ruling party to undermine genuine opposition.
Biya is recognized for initiating multiparty democracy in Cameroon, but ongoing civil unrest has hindered economic stability. Lawyer and opposition figure Tamfu Richard suggested that Biya’s age might limit his ability to address these crises.
Critics contend that instead of engaging in meaningful dialogue, Biya has aggressively suppressed political dissent, resulting in the imprisonment of peaceful protestors, including opposition leader Maurice Kamto.
The ruling CPDM relies heavily on coalition partners like the MDR and contact parties known as the “G20” for parliamentary control, despite their waning support.
Although Maurice Kamto is seen as a potential successor, Biya’s son, Franck Biya, is increasingly visible within political circles, hinting at possible succession plans.
Recent comments by Catholic bishops during a seminar in Buea stirred government criticism, yet the communication director denied that any resignation demands were made, asserting bishops merely seek improved living conditions for citizens.
Despite slight economic recovery, Cameroon’s GDP growth slowed in 2023, attributed to high inflation and internal conflicts, with over 23% of the population remaining in extreme poverty.
Corruption remains pervasive, as Akpo stated, “Corruption is at the bone marrow of every political being in Cameroon,” underscoring the disconnect between wealth generated by state projects and the living standards of ordinary citizens.
The lack of viable alternatives to Biya compounds the issue. Critics argue that the fragmented opposition has failed to provide a cohesive challenge to his prolonged rule, leaving some citizens satisfied with the status quo.
Supporter Michele Ndoki remarked, “The question is whether or not he’s able to perform his duty as the president of the republic,” reflecting frustrations with the current political landscape.
Cameroon is currently facing a political landscape dominated by the prolonged presidency of Paul Biya, who has been in power for more than four decades. As he approaches potential re-election at 91, concerns surrounding his health and ability to govern are rising among citizens and observers alike. The political environment is characterized by significant civil unrest due to ongoing conflicts, especially regarding separatist movements in Anglophone regions, and corruption within the government. Various factions within the opposition remain fragmented, contributing to challenges in presenting a unified front against Biya’s continued leadership.
In summary, as Cameroon faces elections with President Biya poised for another term, significant concerns about his age, health, and the viability of the opposition persist. The political environment remains fraught with challenges, including economic instability and a lack of genuine alternatives to current leadership. Observers criticize the suppression of dissent and highlight ongoing issues of corruption, questioning the future of the nation under another term of Biya’s presidency.
Original Source: www.dw.com
