Cameroon President Biya returns after 73 days

Cameroon President Paul Biya has returned to the country after spending 73 days abroad, ending a prolonged absence that had fuelled questions about his whereabouts and ability to govern.

Biya, 93, arrived in the capital, Yaounde, at about 16:00 GMT on Thursday from Geneva, Switzerland, where he had been staying since June 7.

His office had described the trip as a “short private stay”. Cameroonian media reported that he was accompanied by family members and close aides during his time in Switzerland.

After landing, Biya left the airport with First Lady Chantal Biya, waving to supporters as they travelled towards the presidential palace.

Dozens of ruling party supporters gathered at the airport to welcome the president, with some wearing clothing bearing his image.

Biya’s lengthy absence had prompted speculation about his health and the running of government. In June, Communication Minister Rene Emmanuel Sadi denied reports that the president had been hospitalised at a clinic in Geneva.

Senior government officials also rejected suggestions that his absence had created a power vacuum, insisting that Biya continued to oversee state affairs while abroad.

Biya has ruled Cameroon for nearly 44 years and secured an eighth term in office following the October 2025 presidential election.

SOURCE: AFP