### Paul Biya's Eighth Term: A Controversial Continuation of Power in Cameroon - Paul Biya, at 92 years old, has been sworn in for an unprecedented eighth term as President of Cameroon, following a highly contested election that has been marred by allegations of fraud and significant post-election violence. His administration, which has been in power since 1982, faces increasing scrutiny and unrest as opposition groups contest the legitimacy of the election results and the methods used to suppress dissent. Biya's inaugural address emphasized a commitment to restoring order amidst the chaos, while he attributed the unrest to "irresponsible politicians" [https://www.graphic.com.gh/international/international-news/worlds-oldest-president-sworn-in-for-eighth-term-in-cameroon.html][https://www.cameroononline.org/paul-biya-sworn-in-for-eighth-term-amid-deadly-post-election-unrest]. ### Structure of the Overview 1. **Election Context and Results** - Overview of the election process and results. - Allegations of electoral fraud and the response from opposition parties. 2. **Post-Election Violence** - Description of the protests and government response. - Casualties and arrests reported during the unrest. 3. **Biya's Inaugural Address** - Key points from Biya's speech during the swearing-in ceremony. - Promises made regarding governance and order. 4. **International and Domestic Reactions** - Reactions from human rights organizations and international observers. - Public sentiment and opposition responses to Biya's continued rule. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Election Results**: Biya was declared the winner with **53.66%** of the vote, while his main opponent received **35.19%** [https://apnews.com/article/cameroon-president-biya-inauguration-09e4d8b9e722b1ef7309a8b978ed5d22]. - **Casualties**: At least **five deaths** have been confirmed due to post-election violence, with opposition groups claiming higher numbers [https://apnews.com/article/cameroon-worlds-oldest-president-election-biya-protests-712852838d3725ce5e15bc29d312cd40]. - **Public Response**: Protests erupted in major cities, including Douala and Yaoundé, with demonstrators calling for a fair electoral process and denouncing the government's actions [https://www.semafor.com/article/10/30/2025/protests-erupt-in-cameroon-tanzania-over-disputed-elections]. ### Summary of Findings 1. **Biya's Continued Rule**: Paul Biya's swearing-in for an eighth term highlights the ongoing political instability in Cameroon, characterized by allegations of electoral fraud and significant public dissent. 2. **Violence and Unrest**: The aftermath of the election has seen violent protests, with reports of casualties and a heavy-handed government response, raising concerns about human rights violations. 3. **Commitment to Order**: In his inaugural address, Biya pledged to restore order, yet his administration's history and the current unrest cast doubt on the feasibility of this promise. 4. **Opposition and International Scrutiny**: The opposition's rejection of the election results and the international community's concern over the electoral process suggest a challenging road ahead for Biya's administration as it navigates both domestic and international pressures [https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/africa/paul-biya-cameroon-president-election-results-protests-b2853759.html][https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/politics/3675073-tumult-in-cameroon-biyas-controversial-re-election-sparks-unrest].