Biya Absent as Cameroon Campaigns Begin for October Polls
Cameroon’s presidential campaign has entered full swing ahead of the October 12 elections, but incumbent President Paul Biya was noticeably absent as rivals rallied supporters. The 92-year-old leader, the world’s oldest head of state who has ruled since 1982, is seeking an eighth term in office. However, he left the country a week ago on what his office described as a “private trip” to Europe. Diplomatic sources said Biya is in Geneva. Campaigning began Saturday and continued Sunday with opposition figures leading public rallies. Cabral Libii, candidate of the Cameroon Party for National Reconciliation (PCRN), addressed supporters under light rain in Douala, the nation’s economic hub.Former tourism minister Bello Bouba Maigari also drew hundreds of supporters at his rally, bolstered by backing from former candidate Akere Muna, who has since withdrawn from the race. In total, 12 candidates were cleared […]