Cameroon faces a historic choice in the upcoming election. Nine opposition contenders aim to unseat President Biya, who has held power for four decades. Yet, Biya remains a top contender, largely because the opposition is deeply divided.
We’ve spoken to one of the key opposition figures, Issa Tchiroma. And to maintain fair representation, we felt it necessary to speak with President Biya.
As you all know, the president himself is rarely seen in public. That’s why today, we bring someone from his government who is actively advocating for his reelection.
This raises the question of Biya’s absence and his seeming disconnect from the people he leads. When he succeeded the late President Ahidjo, he promised a presidency that was accessible and transparent. Today, however, many ask—where is President Paul Biya? Cameroon has even been ridiculed as a country led by decree.
Biya is seeking an eighth term, yet his connection with the people remains weak. Many Cameroonians want to see their leader—to meet someone empathetic to their struggles. Instead, all we hear about are his trips to Geneva, his favorite destination.
His extended stays in Geneva raise serious concerns. A 2018 investigative report revealed that Paul Biya spent approximately four and a half years of his presidency abroad, mostly in Switzerland, at an estimated cost of $65 million.