Cameroonian President Paul Biya is entering his third week in Switzerland, where he is reportedly undergoing medical treatment amidst a veil of secrecy. A recent report from Jeune Afrique highlights the political undercurrents surrounding the President’s stay as his son, Franck Biya, reportedly maneuvers to consolidate influence.
President Biya has been in Geneva since June 7. The trip was initially prompted by the need for rest and medical evaluation following a health scare during Cameroon’s May 20 National Day celebrations in Yaoundé. According to Jeune Afrique, the president is receiving care at a local clinic, with a dedicated space secured by presidential security services. Officially, however, the President and his delegation continue to reside at the InterContinental Hotel, their long-standing base in the city.
While some sources close to the presidency suggested the President briefly traveled to Russia for additional medical examinations, the Civil Cabinet has denied these reports. The cabinet maintains that the President is not receiving “any special treatment” and continues to manage state affairs from Geneva, assisted by Director of the Civil Cabinet Samuel Mvondo Ayolo. Meanwhile, in Yaoundé, Secretary-General of the Presidency Ferdinand Ngoh Ngoh remains in control of daily operations.
Franck Biya’s movements in Europe
The Geneva delegation includes First Lady Chantal Biya and the president’s niece, Cathy Meba. Franck Biya, the president’s son, has also arrived in Switzerland following reported stops in France and Monaco. As he is frequently mentioned as a leading candidate for the potential position of vice president, observers noted his proximity to the G7 summit held in Évian, France, approximately 40 kilometers from Geneva, between June 15 and 17.
The question of the vice-presidency, which has reportedly intensified influence struggles between Franck Biya and Chantal Biya, has created significant tension within the Cameroonian delegation.
On June 12, officials thwarted an attempt to circulate a fraudulent decree. The document, purportedly signed by President Biya, announced the appointment of a vice president and a cabinet reshuffle. When the letter was delivered to state broadcaster CRTV, Director Charles Ndongo, who is close to the Director of the Civil Cabinet, sought verification. After the Civil Cabinet confirmed the document was a forgery, the Cameroonian gendarmerie launched a judicial investigation, leading to the arrest of the individual who delivered the missive.
The incident echoes warnings previously issued by presidential security advisors. According to several sources, U.S. security consultants had advised President Biya to postpone foreign travel, warning that his absence from Cameroon could be exploited by factions seeking to force a government reshuffle and install their preferred candidate for the vice-presidency.
Source: Jeune Afrique
