In Cameroon, the world's oldest leader claims victory again

"YAOUNDE, Cameroon In a widely disputed election that has sparked protests across the country, Cameroon's president the world's oldest head of state has claimed an unprecedented eighth term in office. Paul Biya, 92, has ruled the Central African nation since 1982. On Monday, the Constitutional Council declared him the winner with 53.7% of the vote, compared to 35.2% for opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary."

"Most Cameroonians have known only one president, who rarely appears in public and spends long stretches abroad, particularly in Switzerland. Cameroon faces multiple crises: jihadist violence in the north, a separatist insurgency in the west, and entrenched corruption. While supporters gathered to celebrate at the Constitutional Council in the capital, Yaounde, Biya remained as elusive as ever. During the campaign he made only one public appearance, and by Monday night he had yet to address the nation, instead releasing a brief written statement."

"Meanwhile, much of the country remained tense. Protests erupted in several cities, including the commercial capital Douala and Garoua, Tchiroma's hometown. Security forces used force to disperse crowds, leaving at least four people dead in recent days. Dozens of opposition figures and activists have been arrested. In Yaounde, streets were quiet, shops shuttered, and armored vehicles patrolled major intersections. When approached, residents were too afraid to talk. In a country tightly controlled by the government, trust is scarce and fear is common."

Paul Biya was declared winner with 53.7% of the vote against Issa Tchiroma Bakary's 35.2%, securing an unprecedented eighth term. Biya is 92 and has led the country since 1982; if he completes the seven-year term he would be nearly 100. The population is young, with a median age of 19, and many have known only Biya as president. The country faces jihadist violence in the north, a separatist insurgency in the west, and entrenched corruption. Protests erupted in multiple cities, security forces dispersed crowds, at least four people died, and dozens of opposition figures were arrested.

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