On Thursday, August 20, by midday, President Paul Biya, accompanied by his wife Chantal and their delegation, was airborne. Their private Boeing jet, registered P4-CLA, had departed from Geneva, with a late afternoon landing anticipated in Yaoundé.
Supporters of the ruling RDPC party have been extensively mobilized, preparing to extend an exceptionally enthusiastic welcome to the head of state.
Cameroonian authorities have orchestrated a grand spectacle for the presidential return. A prime example is the remarkable deployment by CRTV, the national public broadcaster, which has assigned 200 personnel to provide live radio and television coverage. This homecoming has been elevated to a major national event, with the President’s landing and the 22-kilometer journey from the airport to the palace set for broadcast and commentary across their channels.
Extended absence from the nation
This return flight, which neither the Presidency of the Republic of Cameroon nor the government officially announced, marks the end of precisely 74 days that the Cameroonian head of state spent outside the country. This unprecedented period of absence fueled widespread speculation regarding his condition, particularly his health. Some reports suggested he was gravely ill and hospitalized following knee surgery, while others indicated routine medical consultations.
Citizens across Cameroon are keenly observing whether President Biya utilized this extended time away to advance key promises. Among these are the formation of a new government, a commitment made eight months ago that remains unfulfilled, and the crucial appointment to the vice-presidential post, a position established last April.
