Cameroon’s President Paul Biya returned home on Thursday, August 20, 2026, after spending more than 10 weeks outside the country. The prolonged absence was the longest recorded overseas stay of his presidency and had led to widespread speculation about his health and whereabouts.
The 93-year-old president arrived at Nsimalen International Airport in Yaounde on a chartered flight from Geneva, Switzerland. Biya had left Cameroon on June 7 for what his office described as a “brief private stay in Europe.” He was accompanied by First Lady Chantal Biya on his return.
Hundreds of supporters of the ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement lined parts of the capital to welcome the president home. Biya waved to supporters as his motorcade travelled towards the presidential palace.
His extended absence had increased concerns about his health and raised questions about the continuity of government. Opposition politicians had called for the Constitutional Council to consider whether an interim arrangement was necessary, but no action was taken.
The situation also renewed attention on Cameroon’s political succession plans. Although the constitution provides for the Senate president to take interim duties if the presidency becomes vacant because of death, resignation or permanent incapacity, Biya has not appointed a vice president despite the position being reintroduced earlier in 2026. Critics say this has created uncertainty about how a transition of power would be handled if he became unable to govern.
Biya, who has ruled Cameroon since 1982, remains the world’s oldest serving head of state. While his return has ended the immediate questions surrounding his whereabouts, concerns over his health, long rule and the future political succession in Cameroon are expected to continue.
