Cameroon’s Constitutional Council on Friday rejected an attempt to bar veteran President Paul Biya from contesting for an eighth term in office, paving the way for him to extend his nearly 43 years in power.
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Biya, at 92, is the world’s oldest serving president and is seeking another seven-year mandate in elections scheduled for October 12. His age, health, and capacity to govern have become central issues in the political debate.
The challenge was filed by Akere Muna of the Universe Party, one of 12 candidates in the presidential race, who argued that Biya was unfit to rule.
However, Council President Clement Atangana dismissed the petition “on substance, as it is not justified” following two hours of legal argument and a closed-door session.
Reacting to the ruling, Muna — a lawyer and prominent anti-corruption campaigner — said he accepted the court’s decision but insisted that doubts over Biya’s competence remain.
“President Biya reigns but he doesn’t govern,” Muna remarked, alleging that the longtime leader relies heavily on his entourage and wife to perform presidential duties.
Cameroon’s opposition remains deeply divided, weakening its chances of mounting a serious challenge against Biya, who has long been accused by rights groups of repressing political rivals.
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