Yaoundé, Cameroon – Cameroon President Paul Biya, 92, was sworn in on Thursday in the capital Yaoundé to begin his eighth term as head of state.
This cements his position as the world’s longest-serving head of state in terms of age and continued rule.
The swearing-in ceremony took place inside parliament
amid tight security measures, according to AFP.
This comes after he was declared the winner of a controversial presidential election
that faced accusations of fraud and manipulation of the voting results.
Since the results were announced, Cameroon has witnessed widespread protests
in a number of cities, which have been violently suppressed by security forces.
This resulted in a number of injuries and the arrest of dozens of protesters.
Longest-serving leaders
Paul Biya has ruled Cameroon since 1982, making him one of
the longest-serving leaders in Africa and the world.
His opponents say his latest victory enshrines a “perpetual regime”.
This closes the door to any democratic transfer of power.
While the government insists that the elections took place
in a “fair and transparent atmosphere”.
Popular anger escalated
Cameroon faces increasing political, economic, and security challenges.
The most prominent of these are the tensions in English-speaking regions
that are demanding more autonomy.
In addition to the attacks launched by Boko Haram militants in the north.
Observers believe that Biya’s continued rule raises questions
about the country’s political future.
This comes amid deteriorating living conditions and escalating
public anger over poor services and rising prices.
