Cameroon’s long-serving President, Paul Biya, aged 92, has been inaugurated for an unprecedented eighth term following a contentious election last month. The swearing-in ceremony took place at the parliament in Yaoundé, marking the continuation of a 43-year reign that began in 1982. Biya, who is currently the world’s oldest head of state, secured 54% of the vote, as per official results, while his closest rival, Issa Tchiroma Bakary, garnered 35%. Bakary has vehemently contested the outcome, alleging electoral fraud, a claim dismissed by the authorities. The announcement of Biya’s victory sparked widespread protests across the nation, reflecting deep-seated divisions and dissatisfaction among the populace. Biya’s campaign was notably subdued, with the nonagenarian addressing only one rally prior to the election. His extended tenure has drawn both domestic and international scrutiny, raising questions about the future of governance in Cameroon.
