President Paul Biya has secured another term in office, extending his decades-long rule over Cameroon after being declared the winner of the country’s presidential election.
The Constitutional Council announced on Monday that the 92-year-old leader emerged victorious in the highly contested poll, solidifying his place as the world’s oldest serving head of state. The result ensures that Biya, who first assumed power in 1982, will remain president until 2032.
However, the announcement has sparked widespread criticism and rejection from opposition figures. Paul Biya’s main challenger, Issa Tchiroma Bakary, had earlier proclaimed himself the rightful winner, alleging that the official result was “tainted” and “not reflective of the people’s will.”
The disputed election marks yet another chapter in Cameroon’s long-standing political tension, with critics accusing Biya’s government of manipulating the electoral process to maintain power.