Cameroon's President Paul Biya returns after 73-day absence

He had departed for Geneva in June for what his office described as a "short private stay." His extended absence led to widespread speculation in newspaper headlines and raised concerns about governmental continuity and the exercise of presidential powers. Amid health rumors, an opposition lawmaker requested the Constitutional Council declare the presidency vacant.

In response, President Biya signed several presidential decrees, and official social media accounts continued to post messages under his name. Despite his return, the debate surrounding succession and institutional continuity is expected to persist, especially given the absence of a vice president.