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Paul Biya returns to Cameroon after 73-day absence
Cameroonian President Paul Biya has returned to public life following a 73-day absence from the country. His extended stay in Geneva, Switzerland, had fueled intense speculation regarding his health and ability to govern.
During his return, the 93-year-old leader hosted the Indomitable Lionesses, Cameroon’s women’s national football team, at the presidential palace in Yaoundé to celebrate their victory in the Africa Women’s Cup of Nations. While his office described his time abroad as a private visit, reports indicate he underwent orthopedic knee surgery in a Swiss clinic.
His return has not silenced political critics. Opposition leader Jean Michel Nintcheu, president of the Front for Change in Cameroon, has publicly called for Biya’s resignation, urging a transition to a new generation of leadership. Civil society groups, such as the platform Action civile 237, have also expressed doubts regarding the president's capacity to lead, citing concerns over political inertia and the lack of transparent communication during his absence.
Entities
Action civile 237 · Ahmadou Ahidjo · Cameroon · Indomitable Lionesses · Jean Michel Nintcheu · Paul Biya · Yoweri Museveni
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 4 SOURCES] President Paul Biya was absent from Cameroon for approximately 73 to 74 days. lemaroc360.com · panoramapapers.com · panafricanvisions.com · www.rfi.fr
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Paul Biya underwent orthopedic knee surgery at a clinic in Geneva, Switzerland. www.rfi.fr
- [● 2 SOURCES] Paul Biya welcomed the Cameroon women’s national football team to the presidential palace in Yaoundé on August 22, 2026. lemaroc360.com · panoramapapers.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] Paul Biya is 93 years old. lemaroc360.com · panafricanvisions.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Opposition politician Jean Michel Nintcheu called for President Paul Biya to resign to allow for a new generation of leadership. panafricanvisions.com