Issa Tchiroma Bakary Contests Africa’s Oldest Leader, Paul Biya, Who Seeks Eighth Term at Age 92.
Cameroonians headed to the polls Sunday in a presidential election that could see the world’s oldest leader, Paul Biya, extend his decades-long rule by another seven years. However, opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary, a former ally of the incumbent, remained optimistic about his chances to unseat the 92-year-old president.
Bakary, who previously served in Biya’s government before turning critic, has presented himself as the agent of change the nation needs, despite long-standing struggles by the opposition to unite. In a recent interview, Bakary was unequivocal about his capacity to lead the nation through its current challenges.
“I am the one capable of leading Cameroonians successfully in this unprecedented fight,” Bakary stated, challenging Biya’s hold on power that dates back to 1982.
Biya, who has ruled Cameroon for 43 years, is seeking an eighth term in office. Should he win, he would be 99 by the time his term concludes. The election occurs amid domestic crises, including the ongoing Anglophone conflict in the country’s west, and high rates of unemployment and corruption.
Analysts largely predict a victory for President Biya, who campaigned heavily in the predominantly Muslim northern region, where both Bakary and another key opponent, Maigari, command significant support. The incumbent, however, used a campaign rally last week in Maroua to promise “change” for the impoverished northern area.
With 8.2 million registered voters, the contest has been defined by the stark contrast between the long-ruling incumbent and an opposition eager for a change in governance after decades of Biya’s leadership.
