Biya 2026: Cameroon Faces an Elusive Successor

At 93, Paul Biya has led Cameroon since November 6, 1982, and was sworn in for an eighth term on November 6, 2025, after an election contested by his main opponent, Issa Tchiroma Bakary. The term, presented as a transition, is described instead as a period of political lockdown, with succession uncertain and legislative elections postponed. On April 14, 2026, Biya enacted a constitutional revision creating a vice-presidency whose holder he appoints and may dismiss. The article contrasts the aging president with Cameroon’s very young population, which faces issues including unemployment.