Cameroon’s long-time leader, Paul Biya, has been re-elected at 92, extending his already record-breaking stay in power. The nation’s electoral body officially declared him the winner of the 2025 Presidential Election, marking yet another seven-year term in office.
According to the Constitutional Council, Biya secured 53.66% of the total votes, defeating opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma, who polled 35.19%. Although the election took place on October 12, results were only confirmed on Monday after days of tension and uncertainty.
Tchiroma has rejected the results, claiming he actually won with 54.8%, and accused the government of manipulating the vote. Ahead of the announcement, he called for peaceful marches, but the government banned all public gatherings, heightening political tension across the country.
On Sunday, chaos erupted in Douala, Cameroon’s commercial hub, as clashes broke out between security forces and opposition supporters. Reports confirm at least four deaths and multiple injuries among security officers after protesters allegedly attacked a police station and a gendarmerie brigade.
Despite the unrest, Biya’s latest victory ensures he remains one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders, having ruled since 1982. His new term extends his leadership into its eighth decade, further entrenching his influence in Cameroon’s political history.
Many citizens have expressed frustration over what they describe as “democracy without change,” while others argue that Biya’s stability-focused rule has shielded the country from greater chaos. As the dust settles, all eyes are now on how Cameroon navigates this new phase under its nonagenarian president.
