Cameroonian President Paul Biya, who turned 92 on Thursday, remains silent on whether he will run for re-election this year, despite expectations that he will seek an eighth term. Having been in power since 1982, Biya, the world’s oldest head of state, has faced accusations of repressing opposition and human rights abuses. Following a contested 2018 election, he further tightened his grip on power with dissent met by arrests and repression.

Concerns over his health grew after he disappeared from public view for weeks last year, but the government later confirmed he was in Switzerland. Biya has not appointed a successor, and discussions on his potential replacement remain taboo. Despite calls for him to step down, traditional leaders and supporters continue to back his candidacy. Meanwhile, the country faces ongoing violence and economic challenges, with many citizens voicing concerns over corruption, unemployment, and insecurity.