President Biya to Seek Eighth Term in Office

• President Biya announces his candidacy for an eighth term.
• He has been in power for 43 years, leading Cameroon since 1982.
• Biya’s declaration was made on social media in French and English.
• His governance faces criticism amid signs of party divisions.
• The opposition remains divided, struggling to unite against him.

President Biya Announces His Candidacy for Eighth Term

In a significant development in Cameroonian politics, 92-year-old President Paul Biya has declared his intention to seek an eighth term in office. This announcement came via a social media post late Sunday, marking another chapter in an extraordinary political journey that spans over four decades. Biya, who has governed Cameroon for an impressive 43 years, will be a candidate in the upcoming presidential election scheduled for October 12, 2025, an assertion that he confirmed in both French and English on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter.

Political Landscape Raises Questions for Biya

Biya’s declaration emphasized his commitment to serving the nation amid the complex challenges Cameroon faces. “I am a candidate for the 12 October 2025 presidential election. Rest assured that my determination to serve you is commensurate with the serious challenges facing us,” he stated in his post. The seasoned leader, who has been a dominant figure in Cameroonian politics, is already endorsed as the de facto candidate of the ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM), which he leads. However, recent political developments suggest some supporters have started to distance themselves from him, pointing towards potential fractures within his base.

Opposition Challenges and Biya’s Optimism

Moreover, the current political landscape in Cameroon reveals a deeply divided opposition that is struggling to present a united front. Despite the criticism and defections from Biya’s inner circle, they have not coalesced around a single candidate to effectively challenge his long-standing rule. Observers in Cameroon note that while Biya’s grip on power remains firm, the shifting tides within his party and opposition factions could lead to unforeseen developments as elections approach. Biya concluded his message with optimism, stating, “Together, there are no challenges we cannot meet. The best is still to come,” signaling his readiness for the electoral battle ahead.

In summary, President Paul Biya’s announcement to seek an eighth term sparks renewed discussions about his extensive tenure amid internal party dynamics and opposition disunity. His long-standing leadership is meeting challenges, but his followers remain encouraged by his optimism. As Cameroon heads toward the 2025 presidential election, the political landscape continues to evolve, making the upcoming months crucial for both Biya and the fragmented opposition.