92-Year-Old Stronghold: Paul Biya Secures Eighth Term Amid Cameroon’s Fresh Turmoil
In a dramatic yet familiar turn for Central Africa’s political landscape, Paul Biya—the 92-year-old incumbent who has presided over Cameroon since 1982—has officially won his eighth term in office, extending his 43-year rule. Official results published by the country’s Constitutional Council on 27 October 2025 declared Biya the winner with approximately 53.66% of the vote, while his main challenger, Issa Tchiroma Bakary, garnered about 35.19%.
Yet, the numbers only scratch the surface. Behind them lie deep-rooted tensions: youth frustration, secessionist conflict, questions of succession, and an opposition that rejects the verdict. This blog post dives into the what, how and why of this landmark election—what it means for Cameroon, and indeed for the wider African political order.
The Win & The Figures
Biya’s re-election was declared after the presidential vote held on 12 October 2025, with the Constitutional Council confirming his victory on 27 October. Key figures:
Vote share: ~53.7% in favour of Biya.
Opposition challenger Issa Tchiroma claimed 35.2% (official) though he and his supporters assert he won more.
Voter turnout: reported at about 57.76% of registered voters (~8 million) casting ballots.
Biya’s new term: another 7 years, potentially seeing him in office into his late 90s.
On the surface, these data points reflect procedural continuity. But in context they echo deeper issues—ageing leadership, long-term rule, contested legitimacy.
Biya’s Long Shadow: A 43-Year Rule
Since assuming power in 1982, Biya has maintained his rule through changing political landscapes. Some milestones:
He succeeded Ahmadou Ahidjo (Cameroon’s first president) and has been only the second head of state of independent Cameroon since 1960.
In 2008, under his tenure, the constitutional amendment removed presidential term-limits, paving the way for continued rule.
His style: physical appearances have been increasingly rare; for the 2025 campaign, his public presence was minimal and much of the messaging came via a video on social media.
This long tenure means that Biya has outlasted multiple generations of citizens—over 70% of Cameroon’s 30 million+ population are under 35. That demographic reality is central to understanding the rising tide of discontent.
Opposition? Or Contained Challenge?
The main opposition voice in this election was Issa Tchiroma Bakary, a former government minister who defected to become challenger. Key points:
Tchiroma lodged early claims of victory based on his own tally, rejecting the official outcome.
His campaign stirred youth support and mobilised across regions, but was confronted by state machinery and restrictions.
The government, for its part, denied rigging allegations, called the process “peaceful”, yet pre-emptive arrests and crackdowns occurred.
The opposition’s grievances highlight structural problems: lack of transparent process, restricted public gatherings, alleged manipulations—all of which undermine confidence in the election.
Unrest & Violence: Tensions Rising
As the results loomed, the mood on the ground grew combustible. Several incidents stand out:
Protests erupted notably in cities such as Douala and Yaoundé, where youth and opposition supporters clashed with security forces.
At least four people were reported killed in confrontations in Douala just before the announcement.
Arrests: More than 100 opposition supporters were detained in the lead-up to the result.
Internet blackouts and closures of businesses were reported in some regions, intensifying fears of manipulation and suppression.
These developments suggest that “victory” for Biya did not come without contest—indeed, it may have come because the environment was tightly managed.
What It Means for Cameroon
1. Democratic Credibility & Institutional Trust
The re-election of an octogenarian leader after 43 years in power, amid protests and allegations of irregularity, raises profound questions about the quality of democracy in Cameroon. With opposition voices saying the result is illegitimate, institutional trust has eroded. The perception of declining fairness could deepen apathy or fuel resistance.
2. Youth Discontent & Generational Divide
With the vast majority of Cameroonians under 35, the old guard’s dominance looks increasingly out-of-touch. The election exposed a generational gulf—young people demanding change, a system still anchored in elder rule. If the next seven years do not bring meaningful economic and political opportunities, youth unrest could intensify.
3. Conflict and Instability Risks
Cameroon already grapples with a protracted Anglophone crisis in the North-West and South-West, and insurgency threats in the Far North (linked to Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province). A leadership seen as entrenched and unaccountable may struggle to build national reconciliation. The election outcome may amplify tensions rather than quell them.
4. Succession and Governance Concerns
At 92, Biya’s health and capacity have long been subjects of speculation. With this new term extending his presidency potentially into his late 90s, questions about effective governance, power behind the throne, and succession planning loom large. Analysts suggest his network of loyalists and security forces have increasingly become the actual power bearers.
5. International Relations & Reputation
For the international community—investors, foreign diplomats, multilateral agencies—the election’s credibility matters. Cameroon risks being viewed as a quasi-authoritarian state rather than a competitive democracy, which could affect foreign aid, investment, and diplomatic standing. Western observers have already expressed doubts.
Next Steps & What to Watch
1. Swearing-in Ceremony: Biya must be inaugurated within 15 days of the result announcement by constitutional requirement. Watch for who attends, how the ceremony is conducted, and whether major opposition parties are included.
2. Opposition Response: Will Tchiroma and his supporters pursue legal challenges, street protests or an inclusive national dialogue? Their strategy will shape Cameroon’s near-term stability.
3. Policy Agenda: Will Biya’s next term deliver meaningful reforms—especially regarding youth employment, digital economy, infrastructure? Or will governance remain status-quo?
4. Security Flashpoints: The Anglophone regions and Far North are tinderboxes. How Biya addresses these crises—either with force or with reform—will test his government’s legitimacy.
5. International Watch: Foreign governments and multilateral organisations will monitor human rights, rule of law and electoral processes. Sanctions or conditionalities may follow if concerns deepen.
The re-election of Paul Biya for an eighth term in Cameroon is not just another chapter in one man’s decades-long hold on power—it is a flashpoint for broader issues: generational transition, democratic quality, governance for the 21st century. While the official narrative marks stability and continuity, a deeper look reveals a moment of tension—between the old and the new, between authority and accountability, between status-quo and reform.
For Cameroon’s youth, the question is clear: will this term usher in real change, or simply another cycle of the familiar? For the continent, the election raises a sobering question: when leaders outlast their eras, how resilient are our institutions?
As this story unfolds, one thing is certain: the implications go far beyond the ballot box.
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