Paul Biya

Paul Biya is the 93-year-old President of Cameroon, in power since 1982, making him one of the world's longest-serving leaders. He is currently newsworthy due to several significant events. Firstly, Cameroon recently underwent constitutional changes to create the position of Vice-President, who will automatically succeed the President in case of death, resignation, or incapacitation. This marks a major shift in the country's succession plan and raises questions about the "post-Biya" era. Secondly, Pope Leo XIV recently visited Cameroon as part of an African tour, using the opportunity to address corruption within the government, implicitly referencing Biya's administration. The Pope's visit also highlighted the ongoing separatist conflict in Cameroon, with separatists announcing a temporary pause in fighting. Furthermore, the death of Marcel Niat Njifenji, the first president of the Senate and a close ally of Biya, has occurred. These events underscore Biya's long tenure, the challenges facing Cameroon, and the evolving political landscape.