"I am a candidate for the presidential election on 12/10. Rest assured that I am determined to serve you and confront the serious challenges we face," Cameroon's President Paul Biya announced on social media on 13/7.

At 92, Biya is the world's oldest president. He has led Cameroon for 43 years, taking over after his predecessor Ahmadou Ahidjo resigned in 1982. Cameroon abolished presidential term limits in 2008.

Cameroon President Paul Biya at an event in France, 8/2024. Photo: AFP

Cameroon President Paul Biya at an event in France, 8/2024. Photo: AFP

Biya is the candidate of the ruling Cameroon People's Democratic Movement (CPDM) party and also serves as the party's leader. Two former allies have left the ruling coalition and declared their own presidential bids.

Last year, concerns about the president's health arose after he was absent from public view for 42 days. The government prohibited discussions about his health, citing national security concerns.

A presidential term in Cameroon lasts seven years. If elected in October, Biya could remain in office until he is nearly 100 years old.

Duc Trung (Reuters, AFP, Al Jazeera)