CAMEROON :: Paul Biya and a new hospital abroad: the succession war intensifies :: CAMEROON
The the president of CameroonPaul Biya, aged 91, to be hospitalized abroad again, thus reviving debates around continuity. This new long absence, which has already lasted for several weeks, is worrying Cameroonian. Accustomed to their president’s medical trips, many react with resignation to this situation which has become almost normal.
For some, the idea that the country is governed “behind the curtains” is no longer surprising. Saint Eloi Bidoungwho was an activist of the RDPC (ruling party), denies the lack of transparency: “The absence of the president should not surprise anyone. It is a shame that Cameroonians do not know where their president is and how he is doing. “
This long absence of Paul Biya also fueling tension within the government. of the power struggle for it seems that his succession is being prepared. Clarisse Yindoulaw student, stressing that “the war for the succession of the president is now open between the elites”. She also sees a decline in the loyalty of the government, which will have a negative impact on the stability of the country.
Lack of leadership has led to bureaucratic inefficiency, with infrastructure projects collapsing. A question is being raised today about Paul Biya’s legacy. Saint Eloi Bidoung believes that the president has not preserved the achievements of his country: “He inherited a country in peace, but he leaves it in time of war. The successful economy he enjoyed is now on its knees, and tribalism is now dividing Cameroonians.
If some Cameroonians believe that this absence a technique to stay in power until 2025, a majority aims for change and democratic openness. The people want a new political era, after more than four decades under the leadership of Paul Biya.
