Cameroon: Paul Biya officially announces his candidacy for the October 2025 presidential election

The announcement was made via a post on his X account (formerly Twitter), thereby indicating his intention to seek another term as head of state.

“Once again, I answer the call of the Cameroonian people. I am running for my own succession,” reads the statement from the head of state, who is now 92 years old.

In the same message, Paul Biya declares that his determination to serve Cameroon remains unbroken. “Rest assured that my determination to serve you is commensurate with the severity of the challenges we’re facing. Together, there are no challenges that we can’t overcome.”

The Cameroonian president also gave an insight into the vision driving this new candidacy. He mentions his desire to guarantee the security and well-being of Cameroonians, emphasizing results he regards as “visible and appreciable,” while recognising that “much remains to be done.”

This statement officially ends speculation about Paul Biya’s intentions, who has been in power since 1982. His candidacy, although criticized by parts of the opposition and civil society due to his age and the length of his reign, is in line with a tradition of institutional stability that his supporters continue to value.

However, the prospect of this new election raises many questions about the political climate, election preparation, and the fair conditions that should frame it.