President Paul Biya defies “death” speculations returns after long absence
The President of Cameroon, Paul Biya, is back in the country after nearly 49 days spent in the shadows.
The 91-year-old leader arrived the Nsimalen International airport, Monday, October 21, at 4:37 pm, to a warm welcome by his supporters and government ministers.
He arrived from Geneva in Switzerland, where he spent most of his time after disappearing from the public eye, following the Africa-China summit he attended in Beijing on September 8.
His absence from subsequent meetings in New York and France where he was expected to be present, raised concerns about his whereabouts and health.
Rumours later surfaced online and on news outlets, suggesting he was dead. The rapid circulation of the information was quickly debunked by the government, with interior minister, Paul Atanga Nji, banning discussions on the President’s health. The act was considered by news organizations as an attempt to intimidate the press.
The recent events are happening a year to the presidential elections in which the regime in power hopes to maintain grip on its rule after 42 years in power.
