Cameroon’s President Paul Biya on Monday made his first major appearance of the election campaign in his run for an eighth straight term. With five days to go before the vote, Biya addressed supporters at a stadium in Maroua, in the Far North region. It was his first public appearance since May of this year.
“ My determination to serve remains intact,” he told the crowd of several hundred supporters from the ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement.
He also ask public once again for “precious support.” His 25-minute speech focused on youth, women and infrastructure.
Speaking to a crowd waving party flags and chanting his name, Biya promised to deliver greater opportunities for young people in a nation where unemployment and poverty remain widespread. “My goal, my fellow citizens, is for every young person, wherever they may be, to have opportunities that enable them to easily find a job or become an entrepreneur,” Biya declared, his voice steady but measured.
The event in Maroua was Biya’s first campaign outing after weeks of speculation about his inability to lead. The president had only recently returned from a private stay in Switzerland.
No mention has been made about where and when will Paul Biya visit befor the election day.
Observers say despite growing discontent, Biya’s hold on power remains formidable. The opposition is fragmented, and his most serious challenger, Maurice Kamto, was barred from contesting the election in August. Election watchdogs and international observers have repeatedly questioned the fairness of Cameroon’s polls, citing irregularities and bias within the national election commission, where several officials have close ties to Biya’s government.
