CurrentReport Blog President Paul Biya of Cameroon has returned to the country, putting an end to widespread rumors of his death. Biya, 91, arrived at Yaoundé’s international airport on Monday, following weeks of speculation regarding his health and whereabouts.
Concerns over the president’s absence arose after his disappearance from public view following his attendance at the China-Africa summit in Beijing at the beginning of September. His prolonged absence sparked rumors about his condition, leading to increased anxiety among Cameroonians.
Upon his return, Biya was seen on state broadcaster CRTV, shaking hands with officials while standing alongside his wife, Chantal Biya. A jubilant crowd gathered to welcome the president home, with billboards around the capital displaying messages like, “Welcome home, Mr President of the Republic.”
A CRTV presenter declared, “Today the president is on his way, and this will put an end to all the speculation,” confirming that Biya’s return marks the closure of the rumors surrounding his health.
Paul Biya, Africa’s second-longest serving president, has led Cameroon since 1982, and despite his advanced age, he remains at the helm of the Central African nation.
