After 42 days of absence, ailing 91-year-old President Paul Biya returned to Cameroon on Monday, sparking a wave of public curiosity and relief.
Concerns about Biya’s health and whereabouts had escalated during his prolonged absence, fueling speculation and rumors of his death.
Biya’s chartered flight from Geneva touched down at Nsimalen International Airport in Yaoundé just before 5 p.m. (1600 GMT), according to Reuters.
On the tarmac, he briefly exchanged words with his secretary-general, Ferdinand Ngoh Ngoh, before swiftly entering his vehicle.
Although he did not address the public, Biya waved to his supporters from the back window of his car as his motorcade left the airport.
Thousands of loyalists from the ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) lined the 22-kilometer route from the airport to the Etoudi presidential palace, donning fabrics adorned with Biya’s image.
Banners and billboards along the streets displayed messages such as, “Long life to His Excellency Paul Biya, father of the nation.” Onlookers filled the streets to catch a glimpse of the president and confirm his wellbeing.
Biya’s extended absence, without any official update on his health, led to widespread speculation about his condition, including rumors of his death. Government officials repeatedly assured the public of his good health, but the lack of transparency only intensified concerns.
At one point, discussions about the president’s health were banned by the government, labeling it a matter of national security.
Despite the secrecy surrounding his health, Biya’s supporters came out in full force, demonstrating their loyalty and relief at his return.
