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Catholic Church Turns Up Heat on Cameroon’s 91-Year-Old President Ahead of 2025 Elections
Cameroon’s Catholic Church is dialing up the pressure on President Paul Biya as the nation braces for its 2025 presidential elections.

The 91-year-old leader—already the world’s oldest sitting president—has signaled his intention to seek an eighth term, despite growing calls for change and concerns about his fitness for office.
Clergy Sound the Alarm
Leading voices in the Catholic Church aren’t holding back as they question Biya’s continued hold on power.
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Archbishop Samuel Kleda of Douala didn’t mince words:
“It’s not realistic. We’re human beings—we all leave this world eventually. No one can perform miracles forever.” -
Archbishop Jean Mbarga of Yaoundé encouraged Cameroonians to take control of their country’s future:
“It’s a jubilee year, and soon it will be an election year. I urge the faithful to take their historical responsibility seriously.” -
Bishop Yaouda Hourgo of Yagoua offered a stinging critique of the nation’s dire situation:
“We can’t suffer more than we already have. Even if the Devil himself takes power in Cameroon, it might be better than this.” -
Bishop Emmanuel Abbo of Ngaoundéré blasted the government’s indifference to the people’s struggles:
“How is it possible that the desperate cries of Cameroonians don’t push the country’s leaders to end this suffering? Worse yet, they even forbid the people from expressing their pain.”
Biya Stands His Ground
Despite the uproar, Biya remains defiant. In his New Year’s address, he reaffirmed his commitment to serving the nation—strongly hinting at a bid for re-election. If he runs and wins, he would be 92 at the time of the vote and extend his 42-year reign.
Speculation about Biya’s health has only added fuel to the fire, especially after his notable absences from public events in 2024. While government officials insist he is in good health, a controversial media ban on discussing the president’s condition has sparked outrage over press freedom.
Nation at a Crossroads
With the Catholic Church stepping into the political arena and Biya refusing to budge, Cameroon finds itself on the brink of a pivotal moment. Will Biya heed the growing calls for change, or will he dig in his heels and risk plunging the country into deeper political and social turmoil?
One thing is clear: the battle for Cameroon’s future is heating up—and the world is watching.
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