Paul Biya 53-Day Absence Sparks Health Speculation

Cameroon’s 93‑year‑old President Paul Biya departed for a “brief private stay” in Switzerland on 7 June, traveling with his wife, Chantal, according to official statements. Nearly two months later, the president and first lady have not addressed the nation or appeared in public, marking a record 53‑day absence for the world’s oldest sitting head of state. The prolonged silence has sparked widespread speculation within Cameroon about Biya’s health, a subject that remains legally prohibited from public discussion in the country.

Government spokespeople have offered no further comment on the president’s whereabouts or condition, and no official communication has been released since the Swiss trip began. The lack of information continues to fuel uncertainty among Cameroonians and international observers, while the administration maintains that the stay was intended to be brief.