As President Paul Biya celebrates his 92nd birthday, many Cameroonians are vocalizing their desire for leadership change, with contrasting sentiments about his tenure. While he has been in power for 43 years, criticisms regarding political stagnation, economic issues, and health concerns loom over his legacy, amidst ongoing discussions about his potential candidacy for upcoming elections.
On Thursday, February 13, President Paul Biya of Cameroon celebrates his 92nd birthday amid heightened calls from many citizens for a change in leadership. As his tenure concludes later this year, some Cameroonians advocate for his departure while others support his continuation in office. Biya, born in Mvomeka’a in 1933, has been Cameroon’s leader since 1982, marking 43 years in power, making him one of the longest-serving leaders globally, second only to Equatorial Guinea’s Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo.
Despite Biya’s long presidency, his rule has faced accusations of political instability and stagnation, particularly in democracy and security. Recent concerns regarding his health have emerged, especially following a long absence from public view in late 2024, leading to speculation about his well-being. Government officials dismissed these rumors, claiming he was on a private visit to Europe, even as he missed significant events like the UN General Assembly.
Critics argue that Biya’s prolonged governance has instead resulted in economic fragility, rampant youth unemployment, and widespread corruption, alongside accusations of human rights abuses. During his absence, the interior minister placed restrictions on media discussing the president’s health, reflecting a troubling suppression of dissent within the nation. Biya’s presidency has been marked by seven contested re-elections, with accusations of electoral fraud and manipulated processes particularly highlighted during the heavily disputed 2018 election.
Amendments to the constitution removed presidential term limits, allowing Biya to run for re-election indefinitely. Though he has not formally announced his candidacy for the upcoming October 5, 2024 race, many speculate that recent political maneuvers suggest intentions to remain in power. Following his birthday, reactions on social media ranged from calls for him not to seek another term to messages praising his governance.
Among various sentiments shared on platforms like Facebook, some users expressed despair over the country’s state under his leadership. Claudio Chuo stated, “Cameroon is rotten to the extent that maggots will soon start coming out of the country if Pa (Biya) is still in there as the Head of State.” Meanwhile, others, like Diego Bob Jackson, wished him well, stating, “We love you in Cameroon. We Cameroonians are impressed with the good work you have been doing all these years.”
In summary, President Paul Biya’s 92nd birthday has sparked contrasting reactions among Cameroonians, reflecting deep-seated divisions over his leadership. While some citizens are calling for a change, others commend his contributions over decades. Under his extended tenure, significant challenges such as economic instability, allegations of human rights abuses, and criticisms of democracy persist. As Biya’s presidency continues, citizens remain divided on the future path of their country’s leadership.
Original Source: www.icirnigeria.org
