Cameroon’s Endless Presidency: Paul Biya Clings to Power While People Demand Justice

In a stark reminder of the systemic rot plaguing Cameroon, President Paul Biya, aged 92 and in power since 1982, has announced his intention to run for an eighth term this October. This is not just a political decision; it is a blatant refusal to relinquish power in a country crying out for justice, accountability, and true democracy. For decades, Biya’s regime has perpetuated corruption, ignored the suffering in the English-speaking regions torn apart by secessionist violence, and failed to protect citizens from the horrors inflicted by Boko Haram in the north. Meanwhile, ordinary Cameroonians face repression and political stagnation as their leaders cling to power. Human rights activists like Nkongho Felix Agbor rightly call this moment a symbol of a stalled political transition — a refusal to embrace the renewal desperately needed. This election is not merely about one man’s longevity; it is a battle for the soul of Cameroon, a fight against entrenched elites who prioritize their grip on power over the well-being of the people and the planet. The international community must stand with marginalized voices demanding systemic change and an end to this autocratic nightmare.