Cameroon’s President Paul Biya has returned to the country after several weeks abroad, amid growing speculation about his health.
The 91-year-old leader arrived at Yaounde’s international airport on Monday.
Biya’s return was highly anticipated, following his disappearance from public view after attending a China-Africa cooperation summit in Beijing in September.
His government had announced his planned return on October 8.
A jubilant crowd greeted Biya at the airport, with supporters chanting and waving posters bearing his image. The presidential motorcade then proceeded to the palace.
Biya’s extended stays abroad have raised concerns about his health and governance.
This is not his first prolonged absence, having spent nearly four-and-a-half years overseas in the past 35 years.
As Africa’s second-longest-serving leader, Biya has ruled Cameroon for over 41 years.
His presidency has been marked by a crackdown on opposition, with hundreds of peaceful protesters jailed.
Biya’s future plans remain uncertain, with speculation surrounding his potential re-election bid in October 2025. He has not designated a successor.
The president’s return is expected to address concerns about the country’s leadership and by stability. Cameroon awaits Biya’s next moves, as the nation navigates its political and economic challenges.
“Today the president is on his way and this will put an end to all the speculation,” declared a CRTV presenter.
“Welcome home, Mr President of the Republic,” said one billboard with a portrait of Biya on a blue background, an AFP reporter at the scene said.