World’s Oldest Head of State, Paul Biya, Approves Major Military Reshuffle Amid Two-Month Public Absence
Cameroon has once again become the focus of international attention as President , widely recognised as the world’s oldest serving head of state, remains out of the public eye for nearly two months while continuing to exercise presidential authority from abroad.
The prolonged absence of the 93-year-old leader has sparked widespread speculation both within Cameroon and internationally, with many questioning his health, whereabouts, and ability to govern. The growing uncertainty has also fuelled intense debate across social media platforms, where rumours about the president’s condition have circulated in recent weeks.
President Biya reportedly departed Cameroon on June 7 for what government officials described as a brief private vacation in Europe. However, the visit has extended far beyond initial expectations, making it one of the longest periods he has spent away from the country in recent years.
As concerns mounted, government spokesperson sought to reassure the public during an interview with French television channel RFI. He dismissed rumours surrounding the president’s health, insisting that Biya is alive, in good condition, and expected to return home soon. However, he declined to provide further details regarding the president’s exact location or expected return date.
Despite his absence, President Biya has continued to carry out official state duties. In a significant move, he approved a sweeping reshuffle of Cameroon’s military leadership through three presidential decrees released on Monday and published via the presidency’s official X account.
The changes represent one of the most notable military reorganisations in recent years. Among the appointments, the commander of the Presidential Guard was promoted from the rank of colonel to brigadier general. The decrees also replaced commanders in four of Cameroon’s five combined military regions, signalling a broad restructuring of the country’s security leadership.
In addition, a new commander was appointed to lead the elite Rapid Intervention Brigade (BIR), one of Cameroon’s most influential and strategically important security forces. Several commanders of motorised infantry brigades across the country were also reassigned as part of the comprehensive shake-up.
The timing of these decisions has generated fresh debate, particularly because they were announced while the president remains outside the country. Some observers and social media users have questioned the authenticity of the decrees, while others have expressed concern over how key government decisions are being made during the president’s prolonged absence.
The developments come at a politically sensitive time for Cameroon. Last month, the country’s ruling party convened a rare high-level meeting as criticism over President Biya’s continued absence intensified. Opposition figures and political analysts have increasingly called for greater transparency regarding the president’s health and his ability to effectively lead the nation.
Cameroon has faced growing domestic political pressure in recent weeks, with the president’s prolonged absence adding to concerns about governance, stability, and the country’s political future. While government officials continue to assure citizens that normal state functions remain uninterrupted, questions surrounding the veteran leader’s health and eventual return are expected to remain at the centre of national and international discussions.
