74. These Bloody Politicians

Although I am unaware of the historical details about age, I believe no leader besides Paul Biya has remained in office at 92 years old. 

He has been governing Cameroon since 1982 with an iron grip. As the 7.8 million eligible voters prepare to elect a new President, Mr. Biya is once again a candidate. 

The courts have disqualified the prominent opposition leader Maurice Kamto, who finished second to Biya in the 2018 election.

Surprisingly, the world’s oldest head of state is expected to win again, securing an eighth term in office. 

He has dismissed a divided opposition of 11 candidates and rejected demands for his retirement, despite his advanced age and declining health.

So, there is no significant challenge to Biya’s long-standing rule.

The country is in such a dire state that there's little else to discuss. The main concerns are social unrest and the rising cost of living. 

Cameroon faces significant socioeconomic challenges; a third of the population lives on less than $2 (Roughly Rs 175) a day.

A separatist crisis has led to thousands of deaths and displaced over 700,000 people.

Biya, who is rarely seen in public but affirms that based on his own experience, he can assure that these problems are not insurmountable.

Practically, it is not realistic for Biya to keep doing the job, but it is a fact that this old man will rule for another 5 years until he is 97. 

As long as a corrupt system remains in place, nothing can be done. But the ultimate blame lies with the people. And who knows that Indians?