Cameroon’s 92-year-old president, Paul Biya, has been sworn in for an unprecedented eighth consecutive term, vowing to restore order following deadly post-election protests.
In his inaugural address in Yaoundé, Biya expressed condolences to victims of the unrest and blamed “irresponsible politicians” for fueling violence. “Order will reign,” he declared, urging citizens to move past the disputed election and focus on national unity and stability.
Official results showed Biya winning 54% of the vote, while opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary garnered 35%. Bakary, however, rejected the outcome, alleging widespread fraud and calling for international sanctions against officials involved in the crackdown on protesters.
At least 14 people were killed and more than 1,200 arrested during the demonstrations, according to the National Human Rights Commission, though other reports suggest a higher toll.
Biya, who first took office in 1982, praised security forces for “maintaining peace,” but made no mention of allegations of excessive force. He pledged to prioritize issues affecting women and youth while tackling corruption and insecurity that have plagued his administration.
Despite growing discontent and opposition challenges, Biya remains one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders, maintaining a firm grip on power for over four decades.
