Cameroon President Paul Biya's Health Rumors Spark Government Denial and Public Defense

The Cameroonian government issued an official communiqué on 18 June 2026 refuting reports that President Paul Biya was hospitalized in Geneva. Minister of Communication René Emmanuel Sadi confirmed Biya’s presence in Switzerland but denied any hospital stay, stating that only routine medical consultations were taking place and that the president continues to follow national affairs and will return to Cameroon soon.

Academic Pascal Messanga Nyamding appeared on Vision 4 to argue that a 93‑year‑old head of state naturally requires periods of rest. Nyamding, who had been in Geneva shortly before Biya’s arrival, said he had discussed the president’s health with French, Swiss and Cameroonian contacts and emphasized the need for realistic expectations regarding the elder leader’s condition.