Fifty-three days and counting: 93-year-old leader’s record absence fuels health speculation

Cameroon's President Paul Biya, who is 93 years old, has not been seen or heard from publicly for 53 days. He left for Switzerland on June 7, 2023, for what officials described as a "brief private stay" alongside his wife, Chantal. Since that time, neither the president nor the first lady has made any public statements or appearances, leading to renewed speculation about Biya's health and well-being. Discussing his health is illegal in Cameroon, which has further complicated the situation. The prolonged absence of Biya, the world's oldest head of state, has sparked significant debate among the Cameroonian populace regarding government inaction and the desire for change within the country. Citizens have expressed concerns and frustrations over the lack of communication from their long-serving leader, especially given Biya's history of frequent trips to Geneva. The absence of any official updates has intensified speculation about whether he is alive or deceased. The ongoing silence from the presidency has raised questions about the future of governance in Cameroon. Many citizens are calling for transparency from the government regarding Biya's health and the functioning of the state in his absence. As the situation continues to unfold, the lack of clarity on the president's status remains a pressing issue for the nation.