By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo
As the 2025 presidential elections approach, a noticeable divergence of opinion has emerged among Cameroonians, particularly the youth in Yaoundé, regarding President Paul Biya’s candidacy. While some have urged the long-serving leader to step down with integrity, others believe his continued leadership is a patriotic duty.
The discussions intensified on July 15 as The Post gathered reactions from residents. Many expressed a desire for President Biya, the presumed candidate for the Cameroon People Democratic Movement (CPDM) party, to consider retirement given his advanced age.
“When President Paul Biya’s intention to run for the upcoming Presidential Elections first emerged, it didn’t sound serious to me, but now I think he is earnest,” said Samson, who preferred to use only his first name. “If I had the power to advise him, I would urge him not to run again. At this time, he deserves a well-earned rest in retirement.”
Ethel who also preferred to be called only by her first name said, “I don’t subscribe to the idea that President Paul Biya should stand again for the upcoming elections. He has given his all to the country, and we appreciate him immensely; we hold him in high esteem. I believe it is time for him to leave the stage now.”
Stephen, a taxi driver, added, “I want to think that those calling for our president to stand in the upcoming elections do not truly care for him. As party comrades, they should be advising him and proposing better ways of serving this country. He has done so for almost 50 years. What more can we expect from him now? I believe he has given his best.”
However, a different perspective emerged from other young Cameroonians who believe President Biya still has much to offer, especially having learned from past experiences.
“I am one who thinks his decision to run for the upcoming elections is a well-crafted and sound one,” stated Peter. “He surely must have noted that there are several things he has not addressed and wants to rectify them now. It’s never too late.”
Joan Marie concurred, “Let us allow our President to stand again. I believe that his decision to stand again in the upcoming elections was well thought out. Let us allow him to consider his options as he galvanizes his party comrades for another mandate. To me, leadership has no age limit.”
Meanwhile, Kelly Thomas argued that despite Biya’s age, he has been blessed with a strong spirit and body, which is why Cameroonians should allow him to continue leading the country. “He still has the spirit and might to lead Cameroon, which is why he should be given the chance because he masters the environment.”
Since President Paul Biya made known his candidacy, tongues have been wagging, particularly among the youth. Beer parlors and entertainment spots have become centers for these discussions. While some youths see no problem with Biya running, others contend that it is time for a young and energetic person to take over and inject fresh ideas.
President Biya, who has been in power since 1982, would be seeking an eighth term. He is expected to face challenges from a number of political parties poised to change the narrative. If re-elected in October 2025, Paul Biya, already one of the world’s longest-serving heads of state, would be 99 years old when his mandate ends in 2032.
