Monthly Archives: July 2026

23, July 2026

Where is Paul Biya, the world’s oldest head of state? ⁰

For a nation that prides itself on stability, the Republic of Cameroon finds itself trapped in an increasingly familiar cycle: the head of state disappears, rumors flourish and his government responds not with transparency but with silence.

At 93 years old, President Paul Biya is the world’s oldest serving head of state. He has ruled Cameroon since 1982 longer than many of the country’s citizens have been alive. Yet once again, his prolonged absence has become the story. The ruling CPDM party faces mounting criticism as Cameroonians ask a simple, legitimate question: Where is their president?

This is not idle curiosity. In any functioning or “advanced” democracy, the whereabouts and health of a sitting president are matters of public interest. They are questions of governance, national security and accountability.

Cameroon has been here before. In 2024, Biya vanished from public view for 42 days while abroad, prompting widespread speculation that he had died. Rather than addressing public concerns with openness, authorities reportedly banned public discussion of the president’s health. That response did little to reassure citizens. Instead, it reinforced perceptions of a government that sees transparency as a threat rather than a duty.

The current episode risks repeating the same mistakes. Every day without credible information creates a vacuum. In that vacuum, rumors become headlines, conspiracy theories gain traction and confidence in state institutions erodes further.

Biya’s supporters who are looting the treasury argue that a president, like any citizen, deserves medical privacy. That is true—to a point. But public office comes with obligations that transcend personal preference. When one individual occupies the highest office in the land, especially after more than four decades in power, questions about their ability to govern are not an invasion of privacy. They are part of democratic accountability.

Cameroon’s political system has become so closely identified with one man that every unexplained absence raises unsettling questions about who is actually making decisions. If Biya is governing effectively, the government should demonstrate that. If Biya is temporarily unable to perform his duties, constitutional mechanisms exist to ensure continuity. What cannot be defended is prolonged official silence.

The issue extends beyond Paul Biya himself. It speaks to a broader challenge confronting nations led by aging leaders who have remained in office for decades. Institutions should be strong enough to function regardless of one person’s health or presence. When they are not, uncertainty becomes inevitable.

The question confronting Cameroon is no longer simply “Where is President Biya?” It is why the government continues to believe that withholding basic information serves the public interest.

Citizens deserve answers, not censorship. They deserve transparency, not speculation. And they deserve confidence that their country is being governed by institutions—not by mystery.

Until those answers are provided, one question will continue to echo both within Cameroon and beyond its borders:

Where is the world’s oldest head of state?

By Soter Tarh Agbaw-Ebai

23, July 2026

Yaoundé: CPDM barons meet as Biya’s long absence draws criticism ⁰

Cameroon’s ruling party called a rare meeting of senior leaders on Wednesday as criticism mounted over the continued absence of President Paul Biya, 93, who has spent the last 45 days abroad.

Biya, the ‌world’s oldest head of state, left Cameroon on June 7 for what the civil cabinet described as “a brief private stay in Europe” and has since not returned. The government has provided no information as to when he might be back.

Jean Nkuete, secretary-general of the central committee of the Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM), who summoned the ⁠meeting, did not disclose its agenda, describing it in a statement only as “an important working session.” There was no immediate indication that the meeting was linked to Biya’s prolonged absence from public view.

In office since 1982, Biya has for years spent extended stretches in Switzerland and elsewhere in Europe, though his advanced age means they have increasingly fuelled speculation about his health, whereabouts and ability to govern. The current overseas trip is his longest yet.

DISCUSSION OF HEALTH BANNED

After a similarly extended period out of the country in 2024, the ‌government banned discussion ⁠of Biya’s health.

That has not stopped some opposition figures from commenting on Biya’s absence.

The Cameroon Democratic Union, an opposition party, said in a statement on July 18 that officials should “provide the nation with the necessary clarifications regarding the effective continuity of the state.”

In a Facebook post on July ⁠17, opposition lawmaker Jean Michel Nintcheu said the Constitutional Court should declare the position of head of state vacant.

A government spokesperson did not respond to a request for comment. The government has previously ⁠dismissed reports that Biya is receiving medical treatment and said he can effectively run the cocoa- and oil-producing country from overseas.

Lawmakers in April approved the re-introduction of the role ⁠of vice president, who would be first in line to succeed Biya, but the role has not been filled.

Biya has also not appointed a new government despite having won re-election last October.

Source: Reuters

22, July 2026

Iran says 53 killed, 592 wounded in US airstrikes since June 27 ⁰

Iran’s Health Ministry says recent US airstrikes on the country have killed 53 people and injured 592 others, including women and children.

“From June 27 to 8:30 a.m. today (July 22), US airstrikes on our country left 592 injured and 53 martyrs,” Hossein Kermanpour, head of the Health Ministry’s Public Relations Center, said in a post on X on Wednesday.

Kermanpour said six women and three minors were among those killed, while 39 women and 23 minors were among the injured.

“So far, 535 people have been discharged [from hospital] after treatment, 36 are still hospitalized, and 21 people have been treated on site,” he added.

The US military has carried out waves of deadly strikes across southern Iran and reinstated an illegal blockade of Iranian ports in flagrant violation of a war-termination deal.

In response, Iranian armed forces have launched heavy reprisal attacks against strategic American targets across the region, declaring the Strait of Hormuz closed “until further notice” and at least until “the end of US interference in the region.”

The latest escalation comes after the US and Israel launched another round of aggression against Iran on February 28.

Iran swiftly retaliated by launching barrages of missiles and drones at the Israeli-occupied territories, as well as US bases and interests across the region.

Since then, the aggression has increasingly centered on the Strait of Hormuz, a vital maritime chokepoint through which roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil supplies pass.

Source: Presstv

22, July 2026

Call Chantal Biya to order ⁰

The conduct of public figures is never judged solely by what is legal; it is also measured against standards of judgment, dignity and public responsibility. First Ladies, while often holding no elected office, occupy positions of immense symbolic importance. Their public appearances inevitably send messages about values, priorities and leadership.

If reports are accurate that First Lady Chantal Biya chose to attend a high-profile sporting event while her husband, President Paul Biya, was seriously ill and receiving medical treatment abroad, many citizens would understandably question whether such a decision reflected appropriate priorities. In times of personal and national uncertainty, the public often expects those closest to a nation’s leader to demonstrate solidarity, compassion and discretion.

Likewise, public figures like Chantal Biya should recognize that the way they dress at internationally televised events inevitably attracts attention. While every individual has the right to personal expression, those who represent their country on the global stage also carry a responsibility to uphold standards of decorum that reflect the dignity of the office they symbolize. When attire becomes the dominant story rather than the event or the nation being represented, it risks distracting from more important issues.

Leadership is as much about perception as it is about action. Those entrusted with representing a country should be mindful that their choices—whether involving travel, public appearances or personal presentation—can influence public confidence and shape international perceptions.

Public office, whether elected or ceremonial, requires restraint, sensitivity and an appreciation that personal freedom is accompanied by public responsibility. Actions that appear inconsistent with those expectations are likely to invite criticism and should encourage reflection. Those who occupy such prominent positions would do well to exercise greater discretion in the future, ensuring that their conduct promotes respect for the institutions they represent rather than unnecessary controversy.

By Soter Tarh Agbaw-Ebai

22, July 2026

Yaoundé begins preparations for Archbishop of Canterbury’s visit ⁰

The Government of Cameroon has begun preparations for the official visit of the Archbishop of Canterbury and Head of the Anglican Communion, the Right Honourable Sarah Mullally, scheduled to take place from July 31 to August 4, 2026.

Preparations gathered momentum on July 20 when the Minister of External Relations, Mbella Mbella, chaired a high-level coordination meeting with a British delegation led by the Chargé d’Affaires ad interim to review logistical and protocol arrangements for the visit.

The official programme of the Archbishop’s visit is expected to include meetings with state authorities, religious leaders and members of the Anglican community, alongside other activities aimed at strengthening partnerships and fostering mutual understanding.

The preparatory session brought together Minister Delegate at the Ministry of External Relations in charge of Cooperation with the Commonwealth, Felix Mbayu, senior officials of the Ministry of External Relations, the High Commissioner of Cameroon to the United Kingdom, and representatives from several government institutions involved in the organisation of the visit.

Discussions focused on ensuring the smooth conduct of the Archbishop’s stay in Cameroon, including diplomatic protocol, security, logistics and coordination among the various institutions concerned.

The visit by the Right Honourable Sarah Mullally is expected to further deepen the longstanding relations between Cameroon and the Anglican Communion while reinforcing cooperation between Cameroon and the United Kingdom in areas of shared interest. The visit also carries significant religious importance, providing an opportunity for engagement with Anglican faithful and church leaders in Cameroon, while promoting dialogue on peace, reconciliation and social development.

Government authorities expressed their commitment to ensuring the success of the visit, as the visit is widely seen as another step in consolidating Cameroon’s diplomatic engagement with international partners while highlighting the important role of faith-based institutions in promoting peace, unity and sustainable development.

Culled from Pan African Visions

22, July 2026

Issa Tchiroma Calls for Overthrow of Biya’s Government ⁰

Opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary has made a direct appeal to the country’s defence and security forces, urging them to facilitate his return from The Gambia, where he says he is living in forced exile.

In a message on his official Facebook account and addressed to members of the National Gendarmerie, the Army, the Air Force, the Navy and the Fire Brigade Corps, Issa Tchiroma reiterated his rejection of the official results of the October 12, 2025 presidential election, which declared incumbent President Paul Biya the winner.

Issa Tchiroma maintains that he won the election and described himself as the “President-elect” of Cameroon.

Addressing military personnel, Tchiroma paid tribute to their role in defending the nation’s territorial integrity, maintaining peace and protecting citizens in accordance with the rule of law and respect for human rights.

Tchiroma promised that, if he assumed office, he would modernise the country’s defence forces and improve the welfare of military personnel. “Under my leadership, I will ensure a more professional, stronger and more modern army with a status that matches your role and the risks and threats we all face,” he said.

The exiled opposition leader accused the current administration of refusing to recognise the will of the electorate and claimed to have initiated international legal proceedings to defend democracy and human rights in Cameroon.

He further alleged that Cameroonians were facing persecution and intimidation, accusing what he described as “misguided elements” within the security services of acting against the population.

Tchiroma also claimed that he received overwhelming electoral support during the 2025 presidential election, including significant backing from members of the defence and security forces. These claims differ from the official election results announced by Cameroon’s electoral authorities.

Calling on members of the military to remain faithful to their constitutional responsibilities, Tchiroma urged them to uphold the sovereign will of the people. “Remember that you have sworn an oath to serve the Cameroonian people,” he told members of the armed forces. “You must take your responsibilities and not allow yourselves to be drawn into this calamitous path with no future.”

In the strongest part of his address, Tchiroma appealed directly to the military to facilitate his return to Cameroon. “I solemnly ask you to come and take me home from The Gambia where I find myself in constrained and forced exile,” he said.

“I am eager to be by the side of my people, the Cameroonian people who elected me, and to serve them with honour and loyalty for a brighter future.”

Tchiroma Bakary added that he believed it was his constitutional duty to preside over this year’s Armed Forces Day celebrations (on August 14), as Commander-in-Chief, based on his claim that he was the legitimate winner of the 2025 election.

The appeal comes as Tchiroma continues to challenge the official outcome from abroad. Cameroon’s electoral authorities declared President Paul Biya the winner of the poll with 53.7 per cent, a result that Tchiroma and some opposition supporters have rejected. The official election results gave Tchiroma 35.2 per cent of the votes.

Source: Panafricanvisions

21, July 2026

Yaoundé: Biya’s prolonged absence raises questions ⁰

Described as one of the longest-serving presidents in Africa, President Paul Biya’s absence from the country continues to draw criticism.

Forty-four days after Biya left Cameroon on June 7 for what was described as a short private stay in Europe, the 93-year-old head of state has still not returned and speculation is growing.

Rumors about his health have intensified public debate, while an opposition lawmaker has asked the Constitutional Council to declare the presidency vacant.

The ruling RDPC is pushing back, insisting the state remains functional. In an editorial on July 15, party official Christophe Mien Zok said, “The office is not vacant. The Lion(Biya) has not left.”

Since Biya’s departure, official presidential social media accounts have continued to post messages from him, including congratulations to Emmanuel Macron on France’s National Day and to Montenegro’s president on July 13. But there has been no direct public appearance or update from the president himself.

The opposition UDC says a prolonged absence does not automatically mean a vacancy, but argues it does raise legitimate questions about continuity in government and the exercise of presidential powers.

Several analysts say the Constitutional Council should act after 45 days, though no law sets a clear limit on how long the president may remain outside the country.

With no vice president in place, the debate over succession and institutional continuity is now intensifying.

Source: Africa News

21, July 2026

Biya regime gives ship owner 15 days to clear wreck from Douala Port Channel ⁰

Cameroon has given the owner of the Black Rhino 15 days to remove the container ship from the access channel of the Port of Douala-Bonabéri after it ran aground following a collision earlier this month, as authorities seek to prevent further disruption at the country’s main maritime gateway.

The vessel, which is carrying about 150 containers, has remained stranded in the channel since the accident on the night of July 11-12. Within eight days, the shipowner must submit a final report prepared by its appointed experts, outlining the technical solution selected and a detailed recovery plan.

Specialists from marine salvage firms Wave Group and SMIT have already arrived in Douala. The MSM Dolores, a vessel that could assist in the operation, is also reportedly ready to depart from Bata in Equatorial Guinea.

The recovery plan must detail each stage of the operation, including stabilizing the vessel, removing containers, lifting and towing procedures, refloating operations, safety measures, pollution prevention, and the expected timeline.

If the shipowner fails to submit the plan within the deadline, the government will issue a formal eight-day notice. Should the company still fail to act, the authorities may carry out the operation themselves at the owner’s expense, in accordance with Cameroonian law.

Collision Blocks Part of the Access Channel

The measures were announced after a crisis meeting chaired on July 20 in Douala by Transport Minister Jean Ernest Massena Ngalle Bibehe.

The collision occurred during the night of July 11-12 in the port’s navigation channel. It involved the Sea Honor, a Tuvalu-flagged cargo ship leaving the port, and the Cyprus-flagged Black Rhino, which was entering the harbor.

The Black Rhino sustained damage near its bridge and was at risk of sinking. The Port Authority of Douala immediately activated its emergency response team.

The Sea Honor was freed and later towed to an anchorage area for repairs. To prevent it from sinking, the Black Rhino was intentionally grounded alongside the channel’s red buoy line, allowing maritime traffic to continue as much as possible. All 15 crew members were evacuated safely, and no fatalities were reported.

Navigation Restrictions Remain in Place

Although shipping resumed a few hours after the collision, the stranded vessel and its cargo continue to restrict navigation through the channel.

According to preliminary findings from the Port Authority of Douala, a steering failure aboard the Black Rhino may have caused the accident. However, that theory remains subject to the ongoing technical investigation.

The inquiry will determine the exact circumstances of the collision and assess the responsibilities of both vessels, their crews, and any other parties involved in the port maneuvers. Keeping the ship in the channel continues to pose operational risks by reducing maneuvering space, limiting access for some vessels, slowing traffic, increasing waiting times, and raising costs for shipping companies.

Authorities are also monitoring environmental risks, including potential hull damage, fuel leaks, and the possibility of containers falling into the water.

Strategic Trade Route at Stake

The Port of Douala handles most of Cameroon’s maritime trade and serves as the main gateway for cargo bound for Chad and the Central African Republic.

Any prolonged disruption to the navigation channel could therefore affect imports, exports, and supply chains in all three countries. The government’s ultimatum reflects its determination to speed up the recovery while ensuring that the shipowner bears the cost of the operation.

Beyond the immediate response, the accident has also highlighted the operational constraints of the Port of Douala’s busy and physically limited navigation channel, where incidents can quickly disrupt maritime traffic.

For the government, the priority is to remove the vessel as quickly as possible, maintain uninterrupted port operations, and preserve confidence among shipping companies.

Source: Business in Cameroon

21, July 2026

Senegal changes course to back ex-leader Macky Sall as UN chief ⁰

Senegal announced on Monday it was supporting former president Macky Sall in his bid to become the next United Nations secretary-general, changing tack just three days after Sall visited his successor in Dakar.

The government had, until now, declined to back Sall, who was president from 2012 to 2024.

It accuses him of violent political repression that led to dozens of deaths during his last years in office, and of covering up unfavourable economic data.

President Bassirou Diomaye Faye came to office in 2024 on a wave of anti-Sall sentiment.

On Friday, Faye met Sall during the latter’s first trip to Dakar since leaving office and moving to Morocco.

Faye’s entourage said Sall was there to update the president on his UN bid.

On Monday, the foreign ministry announced Faye had now decided that Senegal would “lend its full support” to Sall’s candidacy.

He has “instructed the government and entire Senegalese diplomatic network to promote his candidacy among UN member states”, it said.

Sall’s bid is “now that of Senegal” the ministry added, saying it would benefit “Africa and more effective multilateralism”.

Burundi, which holds the rotating African Union presidency, nominated Sall earlier this year to replace outgoing UN leader Antonio Guterres.

But around 20 AU member states, including Senegal, refused to back him.

Sall was welcomed by thousands of supporters when he arrived in Dakar on Friday.

But his visit drew criticism from detractors, who are demanding answers for the dozens of deaths during his time in office.

Source: AFP

21, July 2026

Cameroon Gold Scandal: UAE trade data exposes hidden exports amounting $524 million ⁰

Cameroon is set to launch a nationwide operation on August 1 to recover an estimated 305 billion CFA francs ($524 million) in unpaid taxes from undeclared gold exports after trade data from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) exposed major discrepancies in the country’s official export records.

The operation will target 51 mining companies and 33 previously unidentified mining sites suspected of evading taxes and customs duties between 2023 and 2025, according to the Ministry of Mines, Industry and Technological Development.

The crackdown follows findings in the 2023 Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) report, which revealed that Cameroon officially declared exporting just 22.3 kilograms of gold in 2023.

In contrast, customs data from the UAE—one of the world’s largest gold trading hubs—recorded imports of more than 15 tonnes of gold originating from Cameroon during the same period.

According to the Gold Demand Trends report published by the World Gold Council, gold sales in the United Arab Emirates reached approximately 37.8 tonnes during the first nine months of 2023, making the UAE one of the world’s largest and most active gold trading and retail markets.

The discrepancy has fueled concerns over widespread underreporting, smuggling, and weak oversight in Cameroon’s mining sector, resulting in significant losses in tax and royalty revenues.

Cameroon moves to tighten oversight

The recovery campaign will be led jointly by the National Mining Corporation (SONAMINES), the Directorate General of Taxes, and the Directorate General of Customs.

Authorities will audit mining firms suspected of under-declaring production while investigating mining sites that allegedly operated outside official records. The government aims to recover unpaid royalties, mining taxes, and export duties tied to undeclared gold production over the past three years.

The initiative comes as African governments increasingly seek to boost domestic revenues amid rising debt pressures and tighter global financing conditions.

For Cameroon, the effort represents one of the country’s most ambitious attempts to formalize its gold industry and curb illicit mineral exports.

The case also highlights how international trade data is becoming an important tool in exposing illicit financial flows.

By comparing export declarations with customs records from importing countries such as the UAE, authorities can identify inconsistencies that point to underreported production or informal exports.

Cameroon is not alone in facing the challenge. Gold-producing countries including Ghana, Sudan, Mali, and the Democratic Republic of Congo have stepped up efforts in recent years to combat smuggling, strengthen mineral traceability, and improve revenue collection from the mining sector.

If successful, Cameroon’s tax recovery drive could serve as a model for how African governments use cross-border trade data to recover lost revenues and tighten oversight of one of the continent’s most valuable export industries.

Source: Business Insider Africa