Cameroon Government Slams ‘Malicious Rumours’ as Biya’s Foreign Stay Continues

Cameroon’s government has forcefully rebutted what it calls a wave of “malicious speculation” surrounding President Paul Biya’s prolonged absence from the country. Communication Minister René Emmanuel Sadi dismissed claims of a power vacuum or health crisis, insisting the 91-year-old leader is simply on a private working visit abroad.

Speaking to state media, Sadi reiterated that President Biya remains in full control of the nation’s affairs from his undisclosed location. He labelled recent social media chatter and opposition murmurings as “baseless” and “irresponsible,” arguing they aim to destabilize the Central African nation. “The Head of State is in good health and continues to carry out his duties,” Sadi stated, without providing specific evidence or a timeline for Biya’s return.

The president, Africa’s second-longest-serving leader, left Cameroon for Geneva, Switzerland, over a month ago. His extended stay—unusual even for the notoriously reclusive ruler—has ignited a firestorm of online debate. Observers point to the complete blackout of public appearances and the absence of official photographs as fueling the uncertainty. Critics argue the government’s vague explanations are no longer credible, especially with pressing domestic issues like the Anglophone crisis and economic hardship demanding attention.

The administration’s defensive posture suggests the rumours are hitting a nerve. By publicly attacking the speculation, Sadi is attempting to reassert control over the narrative. However, the longer Biya remains out of sight, the louder the whispers become. For a regime built on tightly managed optics and the cult of a single leader, silence is becoming a liability. The question now is not just when Biya will return, but whether the government’s word alone can still hold back the tide of public doubt.