President Paul Biya Says He Won’t Resign As He Stormed Maroua Ahead Of 2025 Election And Promised Jobs, Security And Unity

President Paul Biya made a rare public appearance in Cameroon’s Far North region this week to launch his campaign ahead of the October 12 presidential election. The 92-year-old leader, who has been in power since 1982, chose Maroua for his first stop, a city with symbolic weight because of its history of insecurity.

Thousands of supporters gathered under the hot sun, waving flags and singing in support. For some, seeing him in public was reassuring. For others, it raised questions about whether he still has the energy to lead.

This was his first major outing since returning from Switzerland, where his health had sparked debate. Speaking to the crowd, he said, “My determination to serve you remains intact.”

Much of his speech focused on young people, promising new jobs and reforms to the National Employment Fund. He said that no young Cameroonian should remain idle and pledged more support for entrepreneurship and vocational training. Women were also at the center of his message, with Biya saying they and young people would be “at the heart” of his next term.

In a region that has faced repeated attacks by Boko Haram, he praised the resilience of the people and promised renewed efforts to restore peace and security. He also highlighted roads, energy projects like the Nachtigal Dam, and educational investments as proof of progress. On corruption, he urged citizens not to be misled by false information during the campaign.

Biya acknowledged that not everything has been perfect but called for patience and optimism, saying, “the best is yet to come.” That phrase has already caught on with supporters online.

Visiting Maroua first was intentional. The area has been hit hard by poverty and insecurity, and his presence was meant to show that no region is being left behind. Government media called the rally a huge success, while independent observers noted turnout was smaller than in past years. Still, for a 92-year-old leader rarely seen in public, showing up was a clear display of resilience and strength.

As the October 12 election nears, the question remains whether Biya’s promises on jobs, security, and governance will be enough to win over voters looking for change.