World’s Oldest President Paul Biya Wins Cameroon Election at 92

IN NEWS:

World’s Oldest President Paul Biya Wins Cameroon Election at 92

Analysis

1. Election Outcome:
   • Cameroon’s Constitutional Council declared Paul Biya, aged 92, the winner of the October 12, 2025 presidential election.
   • He secured 53.66% of the vote, while his former ally Issa Tchiroma Bakary received 35.19%.
   • Voter turnout stood at 57.7%.
2. Post-Election Violence:
   • The announcement sparked nationwide protests, with at least four deaths reported due to violent clashes.
   • Opposition parties alleged electoral irregularities, disqualification of strong rivals, and state machinery misuse.
3. Political Context:
   • Paul Biya has ruled Cameroon since 1982, making him the world’s oldest sitting president and one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders.
   • He initially assumed office following the resignation of the country’s first president.
   • Subsequent constitutional amendments removed presidential term limits, allowing Biya to extend his tenure.
4. Youth Discontent and Governance:
   • Over 70% of Cameroon’s 30 million population is under 35, yet political leadership remains dominated by the old guard.
   • Critics accuse Biya of elite-centered governance and neglect of youth aspirations.
   • Economic indicators show 3.5% national unemployment, but 57% of youth (18–35) are engaged in informal employment.
5. Regional Impact and Governance Challenges:
   • Cameroon faces growing socio-political instability, with fears of anarchy and democratic erosion.
   • Analysts suggest that Biya’s prolonged rule may intensify generational and political divides.

Static / Background Information

• Capital: Yaoundé
• Currency: Central African CFA franc
• Official Languages: French and English
• Government Type: Unitary presidential republic
• Major Political Party: Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM)
• Neighboring Countries: Nigeria, Chad, Central African Republic, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Republic of the Congo
• Geopolitical Context:
  Cameroon is part of Central Africa, strategically located between West Africa and the Congo Basin, with both Francophone and Anglophone regions, the latter being centers of separatist unrest.

Updated – 28 Oct 2025 ; 02:23 AM | News Source: India Today