Cameroon Biya Reshuffles Military Leadership

The President of Cameroon, Paul Biya has reshuffled the military leadership in the country while remaining out of public view for nearly two months, a move that comes amid growing speculation over his prolonged absence.

Three presidential decrees broadcast on national radio announced promotions and appointments across the armed forces. The changes include the promotion of the commander of the Presidential Guard from colonel to brigadier general and the replacement of commanders in four of the Nations five joint military regions. A new commander was also appointed to lead the Rapid Intervention Brigade, while several senior officers received promotions.

Biya, 93, has not been seen in public since leaving Cameroon on June 7 for what the presidency described as a private stay in Europe. His absence, now stretching to 58 days, has prompted renewed questions about his health and ability to govern.

Government spokesperson René Emmanuel Sadi recently dismissed speculation surrounding the president condition, insisting Biya is alive and would return to the country soon. However, no official date has been announced for his return.

The military reshuffle follows a rare meeting of senior officials from the ruling Cameroon Peoples Democratic Movement (CPDM) last month, as public scrutiny over Biya’s continued absence intensified.

Biya, who has ruled Cameroon since 1982, has frequently spent extended periods abroad during his presidency. However, his current absence is among the longest in office and comes as the country prepares for a presidential election later this year.

SOURCE: Reuters