Cameroon: President Paul Biya returns to his country after 73 days of absence

Cameroon's President Paul Biya returned to the capital, Yaoundé, on Thursday evening, ending a 73-day absence that had sparked widespread speculation about his health and the functioning of his government. The 93-year-old leader, who has been in power since 1982, arrived from Geneva, Switzerland, where he had been on what was officially described as a "short private stay in Europe" since June 7.

Biya, the world's oldest active head of state, waved to supporters from his car as he departed the airport. His extended absence had fueled rumors and intensified debate within Cameroon regarding potential government inertia and the country's leadership. The return of the long-serving president marks the end of a period of uncertainty for many citizens.

His departure on June 7 for Geneva had initially been announced as a brief private visit. However, the duration of his stay led to increased public discussion and concern over the leadership vacuum. Biya's return is expected to bring a sense of stability, though questions about his health and the country's governance may persist.

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The dean of world leaders, aged 93 and in power since 1982, landed around 6 p.m., coming from Geneva where he had been staying since June 7 for a 'short private stay in Europe,' according to an official statement.