It became the longest recorded absence of his presidency, raising serious questions about his health and who was governing Cameroon in his absence — made more pointed by the fact that Cameroon had no sitting vice president during the entire period. Officials maintained he continued exercising his constitutional powers from abroad throughout.
Source: Reuters
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Cameroon have no president for those 74 days?
No — Biya remained president throughout; his physical absence didn't make the presidency vacant.
Was there a call for an interim leader?
Yes — opposition figures raised the idea of considering an interim leader, though no such action was actually taken.
Why does this matter beyond Cameroon?
It's part of a wider pattern of African leaders spending long periods abroad — explored alongside Nigeria's president in What Happens When a President Leaves the Country for 74 Days?