President Paul Biya’s absence from Cameroon, now spanning two months and occurring eight months after his inauguration for an unprecedented eighth consecutive term, has become a focal point of national discussion.

While this duration is unusual, it remains within legal bounds, according to Benoit Ndong Soumeth, a Minister with special duties at the Presidency. He clarified, « A population may, out of affection, feel the need to know what is happening to its leader. The Minister Director of the Civil Cabinet has affirmed that all is well. His response is the most valid way to reassure everyone. There is no problem. We are not in an exceptional or urgent situation. »

However, Roger Justin Noah, the Deputy Secretary-General and interim National Communication Secretary for Maurice Kamto’s opposition party, the MRC, views the lack of transparency surrounding the president’s European sojourn as a profound disrespect towards the Cameroonian populace.

« The Cameroonian people have a right to be informed »

Noah questioned the integrity of the recent electoral process, stating, « Why manipulate the electoral game only to spend weeks and weeks outside our country? If he is facing health issues, the Cameroonian people have a right to be informed; there is no reason to maintain ambiguity regarding the President of the Republic’s health status. »

Conversely, Cabral Libii, who secured third place in the October presidential election, dismissed the ongoing controversy as unproductive. His focus remains firmly on the political landscape leading up to the first quarter of 2027. « I am among those who believe there is no significant difference between his stay abroad and his stay in Cameroon. Regardless of how one views it, from a legal standpoint, Cameroon currently faces a legal void, and I urge everyone, as we approach legislative and municipal elections, to massively vote against this regime, » the opposition figure declared.

The PCRN deputy expressed optimism for a potential shift in the parliamentary majority, which could then facilitate amendments to the existing laws governing presidential travel and stays outside the country.