Jubilation Builds Over Death Rumors As Africa’s Longest-Serving President Paul Biya’s Prolonged Absence Sparks Speculation; Sources Claim France Seeks To Install His Son

Jubilation Builds Over Death Rumors As Africa’s Longest-Serving President Paul Biya’s Prolonged Absence Sparks Speculation; Sources Claim France Seeks To Install His Son

Written By Oshiobugie John– Palpable tension and celebration have gripped Cameroon amid swirling rumors of the death of its 91-year-old, long-serving president, Paul Biya, Africa’s longest-serving leader. Speculation about his demise has been fueled by his prolonged absence from public life, raising concerns over the political future of the Central African nation, which has been shaped by his iron grip on power for the past 42 years.

The absence of any official communication regarding Biya’s health has further stoked the fire of these rumors, with unconfirmed reports suggesting that the president might be either recovering in Switzerland or hospitalized in France. Calls for transparency have come from public figures like lawyer Christian Ntimbane, who, in an open letter to Samuel Mvondo Ayolo, Director of the Civil Cabinet, urged the government to clarify the situation, stating, “If he is on vacation, say so. If he is sick, say that too.”

Amid the growing speculation, rumors of a dynastic succession have also gained momentum, with some sources alleging that France, Cameroon’s former colonial master, is positioning Biya’s eldest son, Franck Emmanuel Biya, to take over the presidency. This has triggered mixed reactions, as some Cameroonians see an opportunity for freedom from the decades-long rule of Biya, while others express fears of continued foreign interference. Social media platforms, especially X (formerly Twitter), have been abuzz with debates, with some users celebrating what they believe to be the end of an era and others criticizing France’s involvement in shaping Cameroon’s political future.

Reports from local outlets, such as Cameroon Concord, indicate that a political framework might already be in place to facilitate a transition, with Robert Nkili, Biya’s brother-in-law, rumored to be ready to step in as interim president. However, opposition leaders like Maurice Kamto could potentially challenge any dynastic succession, pushing for democratic reforms and an end to the dominance of Biya’s political legacy.

Paul Biya has held power in Cameroon since November 6, 1982, following his tenure as Prime Minister from 1975. With 42 years of uninterrupted rule, he has been the second-longest-ruling leader in Africa and the oldest head of state in the world. His leadership has drawn both admiration and criticism, with some hailing his ability to maintain stability and others condemning his autocratic style and suppression of dissent.

As rumors of his death circulate, reactions online reflect the divide: “Paul Biya ruled Cameroon for 42 years and almost destroyed the country. Now he is dead, and France is doing everything possible to make his eldest son, Franck Emmanuel Biya, his successor. France is an evil nation that despises Africa’s progress,” one user wrote. Another said, “Cameroonians are officially free. Paul Biya is dead.” Some users, in celebratory tones, compared his rumored passing to the downfall of other long-serving African leaders, noting, “This is a lesson to all selfish, wicked African leaders who think they can rule forever.”

For now, Cameroon remains on edge, with a mix of jubilation and anxiety as the nation awaits an official update on its aging president and the next chapter in its political history.