Paul Biya seeks eighth term as president amid youth discontent

Cameroon is experiencing a deepening tension between its aging political leaders and a predominantly young population. With a median age of 18, many young Cameroonians express frustration at the lack of opportunities and the prolonged rule of Paul Biya, who has been in power since 1982. Despite his age of 92, Biya is campaigning for an eighth presidential term, an endeavor met with skepticism by voters, particularly the youth who feel disconnected from the political process. Elvis Nghobo, a frustrated 34-year-old, encapsulates this sentiment, believing power change can occur through means other than the ballot box. Biya’s prolonged leadership has brought about concerns regarding not only his age but also the pressing issues facing the country, including a high youth unemployment rate and escalating security threats from armed groups in both English-speaking and northern regions. During his campaign announcement, Biya acknowledged the strain posed by a challenging international environment and promised to address security, job creation, and the rebuilding of infrastructure. However, the youth population questions the authenticity of these promises given the history of political loyalty and alleged electoral irregularities. In preparation for the elections set for October 12, 2025, Biya's campaign is under scrutiny as the opposition remains fractured, particularly after the exclusion of Maurice Kamto, a prominent rival. This inability to present a united front reflects the growing discontent among voters. Many young people like Nghobo have little faith in the electoral system, which they perceive as biased in favor of the incumbent. The overwhelming concern is that Biya's longevity in power symbolizes stagnation rather than progress for a nation endowed with natural resources yet struggling with poverty, estimated at around 43%. Thus, Cameroon stands at a crossroads where the old guard faces mounting pressure from a restless youth. These dynamics underscore the challenges that Biya must navigate as he campaigns for another term while attempting to resonate with the aspirations of younger voters who are eager for change and reform. As the country approaches election day, the divergent expectations of their leader and the pressing need for political evolution will come to a head, revealing the fate of Biya’s continued presidency.