Cameroon’s constitutional court has officially rejected an attempt to bar veteran President Paul Biya from seeking an eighth term of office. The attempt to block veteran President Biya from running was brought forth by Akere Muna from the opposition Universe political party.
Court President Clement Atangana dismissed the legal case “on substance, as it is not justified,” after two hours of legal argument. Biya, at 92 years old, is currently the world’s oldest president and has been in power for nearly 43 years.
The president’s age, his health, and his capacity to govern have become the subject of intense debate in the country. Muna said he accepted the court’s decision, but profound questions remained unanswered about the president’s competency.
His lawyer and supporters have pointed to his profound dependence on his entourage and wife to fulfill his important presidential duties. Cameroon’s deeply divided opposition is currently struggling to mount a cohesive challenge against Biya in the upcoming October 12th election.