Cameroon Ruling Party Questions President Biya’s Absence

Cameroon’s ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) has held a rare meeting of its senior leadership as questions continue over the prolonged absence of President Paul Biya, who has spent the last 45 days outside the country. The gathering comes amid growing calls from opposition parties for greater transparency over the president’s whereabouts and the management of state affairs.

Biya, 93, left Cameroon on June 7 for what the government described as a private visit to Europe. Since then, officials have not disclosed when he is expected to return or provided further details about his stay abroad. The government has maintained that the president remains capable of carrying out his duties while overseas and has previously rejected reports suggesting he is receiving medical treatment.

The meeting was convened by Jean Nkuete, secretary-general of the CPDM’s central committee, who described it as an “important working session” without revealing the agenda. Party officials have not indicated whether the discussions were related to Biya’s continued absence or other political matters.

Opposition parties have renewed demands for clarity over the country’s leadership during the president’s stay abroad. The Cameroon Democratic Union has urged the government to explain how state affairs are being managed. In April, lawmakers reintroduced the position of vice president, who would be first in line to succeed the president, although the office remains vacant. Biya, who has led Cameroon since 1982, has also yet to appoint a new government following his re-election last year.

SOURCE: Reuters