World's Oldest President Biya Wins Eighth Term in Cameroon

Biya Extends 43-Year Rule Amid Violent Protests

Cameroon's 92-year-old President Paul Biya has secured his eighth consecutive term in office, extending his 43-year authoritarian rule in the Central African nation. The Constitutional Court declared Biya the winner of the October 12 presidential election with 53.66% of the vote, while his main challenger Issa Tchiroma Bakary received 35.19%.

The announcement sparked immediate protests across multiple cities, with security forces responding with tear gas, water cannons, and live ammunition. 'We have witnessed blatant impunity from security forces who are shooting at unarmed protesters,' said opposition leader Tchiroma, who had earlier claimed victory with nearly 55% of votes.

Deadly Clashes and Mass Arrests

In Douala, Cameroon's largest city, at least four protesters were shot dead during clashes with police. Authorities confirmed over 100 arrests nationwide as demonstrations spread to Garoua and other urban centers. Protesters carried signs reading '43 years is enough' while confronting heavily armed security personnel.

The election results come amid growing international concern about Cameroon's democratic backsliding. 'This represents another chapter in Africa's troubling trend of aging leaders clinging to power through questionable electoral processes,' noted Dr. Amina Toure, African governance expert at the Brookings Institution.

Multiple Crises Challenge Biya's Next Term

Biya's extended rule faces significant challenges, including the ongoing Anglophone separatist conflict that has killed approximately 6,000 people and displaced over 700,000 since 2017. In the Far North region, Boko Haram continues its deadly campaign with regular kidnappings and attacks on military installations.

The economic situation remains dire, with 40% of Cameroon's 30 million citizens living in poverty and youth unemployment reaching 35% in major cities. 'The country is facing multiple crises simultaneously - political, security, and economic - creating a perfect storm of instability,' explained political analyst Jean-Marie Tchatchouang.

Youth Frustration and Democratic Concerns

With over 70% of Cameroon's population under age 35, many young voters expressed frustration with the political status quo. 'We want change, we want opportunities, but we're stuck with the same leadership that has failed to deliver for decades,' said 28-year-old university graduate Marcel Ndongo in Yaoundé.

International observers have raised concerns about electoral irregularities, including the disqualification of Biya's main potential challenger Maurice Kamto before the election. The low voter turnout and allegations of manipulation echo patterns from previous elections that kept Biya in power.

As Biya prepares for his eighth term, questions about his health and succession plans remain unanswered. The 92-year-old leader spends significant time abroad for medical treatment, creating governance gaps that analysts warn could lead to instability when he eventually leaves office.