Paul Biya’s Health: A Mysterious No-Show in Yaoundé

Once again, Paul Biya’s anticipated return to Yaoundé failed to materialize, sparking renewed speculation about his health. Notably, key figures were summoned to Geneva as financial markets reacted nervously.

On October 13 in Yaoundé, preparations were discreetly underway to welcome Biya at the airport, with activists and youth ready to greet him. However, these plans were abruptly canceled, and it was later revealed that Biya remained in Europe as of October 15.

No official reason for the scrapped return was given, intensifying suspicions about Biya’s health. He had previously canceled several international appearances, adding fuel to the rumors of his ill health.

Amidst widespread rumors of his death, the Cameroonian presidency was forced to declare on October 8 that Biya was in good health and staying in Switzerland. This statement came after rumors suggested he was hospitalized in Paris, which the Cameroon ambassador to France vehemently denied.

The situation led to a ban on media discussions of Biya’s health in Cameroon and planned—but later canceled—prayers for him. Meanwhile, senior government officials and senators were called to Geneva for an urgent budget meeting, underlining the serious nature of the situation.

The uncertainty over Biya’s health and whereabouts is causing concern among international agencies about Cameroon’s political stability and financial health, especially with crucial debt repayments looming. (Jeune Afrique)