Cameroon government confirms paul biya is alive amid absence rumors

The prolonged absence of Cameroon’s president, Paul Biya, has fueled growing speculation, as he has been out of the country for nearly two months. On Sunday, government officials issued a statement confirming his well-being and denying any power vacuum.

Government dismisses claims of power vacuum

In a rare official response to mounting concerns, René Emmanuel Sadi, Cameroon’s minister of Communication and government spokesperson, addressed the situation in a televised interview. He emphatically stated, « The president is alive », while also announcing Biya’s imminent return to Cameroon—though no specific date was provided.

This marks the first direct government intervention since Biya’s extended absence began, coming at a time when opposition voices have intensified calls for institutional transparency and questioned the president’s capacity to continue his duties.

No vacancy, no resignation, officials insist

Sadi pushed back against opposition claims of a power vacuum, stressing that « there is no vacancy in power ». When questioned by journalist Polycarpe Essomba, the minister reiterated that Biya remains active in his role, with no indication of resignation or functional incapacity.

The government’s stance challenges interpretations suggesting the Constitutional Council had declared a power gap. « The Constitutional Council has not ruled on any vacancy », Sadi clarified, dismissing accusations of constitutional misinterpretation by opposition figures.

Uncertainty surrounds Biya’s return timeline

When pressed for a definitive return date, Sadi acknowledged the lack of a precise schedule but assured the public that Biya would return « very soon ». The absence has sparked widespread debate, with authorities remaining tight-lipped about the president’s current location or the reasons behind his prolonged stay abroad.

The uncertainty has deepened political tensions, as opposition leaders demand clarity on the continuity of governance during Biya’s absence.