For several days, persistent rumors have announced the death of Paul Biya. The prolonged absence of the Cameroonian president fuels these rumors which are gaining momentum. The government finally reacted vigorously to try to put an end to the controversy.
Cameroon: Paul Biya, once again victim of rumors about his death
In Cameroon, this long absence of Paul Biya is causing concern. However, this is not the first time that the Head of State has disappeared from the public scene for several days. This time, some Cameroonians seem to have gone further in their speculation, imagining a possible disappearance of the president. His absence during the last United Nations General Assembly in New York and the last Francophonie summit in Paris reinforced the rumors.
Christian Ntimbane, declared presidential candidate in 2025, was alarmed and demanded accountability from the government regarding the situation of President Paul Biya. In response to this arrest and rumors, the government reassured the population about the state of health of the president. According to the government spokesperson, Paul Biya is doing well and will return to Cameroon very soon.
In its press release, the government affirms that the rumors circulating about the health of the Head of State “are the fantasy and pure imagination of their authors”. The press release specifies that the president enjoys excellent health and “works and goes about his business in Geneva, where he has lived since his return from Beijing”.
At 91 years old, Paul Biya is the oldest elected president in office. He has ruled Cameroon for 42 years. This is not the first time he has faced rumors about his death. In 2004, a few months before the presidential election, a similar situation had already occurred. At the time, the rumor was spread by supporters of an opponent. Paul Biya then replied: « People are interested in my funeral. I’ll see them in 20 years« .
