02/08/2026
: Government Says No Power Vacuum as President Biya Expected Back Soon
The Cameroonian government has dismissed speculation about a leadership vacuum following President Paul Biya's extended stay abroad, insisting that the country's institutions remain fully functional.
Speaking in an interview with RFI aired on Sunday, Minister of Communication and Government Spokesperson René Emmanuel Sadi stated that President Biya is "alive" and continues to serve as Head of State, stressing that "there is no vacancy at the top."
The minister also rejected claims by some opposition figures suggesting a constitutional power vacuum, arguing that such interpretations are unfounded and noting that the Constitutional Council has not declared any vacancy in the presidency.
President Biya, 93, has been outside Cameroon since June 7, marking his longest stay abroad since assuming office in 1982. According to the government spokesperson, the President is expected to return to the country in the near future.
The prolonged absence has fueled public debate and renewed calls from sections of the opposition for greater transparency regarding the continuity of state affairs.