Cameroon’s opposition party UDC calls for stronger state continuity measures as President Paul Biya’s prolonged absence raises governance questions

The Union Démocratique du Cameroun (UDC) has issued a strong call to reinforce institutional mechanisms ensuring state continuity, following President Paul Biya’s extended stay abroad. Since June 7, 2026, the Head of State has been in Switzerland for a private visit, sparking important discussions about presidential absence protocols.

The party’s statement emphasizes that while the President’s legitimacy remains unchallenged, the prolonged absence highlights the need for transparent rules governing presidential absences. The current situation, they argue, raises legitimate questions about the effective exercise of presidential duties and the applicable procedures during temporary incapacitation.

The UDC specifically welcomes the reintroduction of the Vice-President position through the April 14, 2026 constitutional amendment but stresses that this measure alone is insufficient. The party proposes several key improvements: establishing clear guidelines for presidential absences, providing regular updates to both the Nation and Parliament, enabling official delegation of certain presidential functions, and implementing an impartial process for verifying incapacitation.

The political party further urges competent authorities to provide clear explanations regarding the effective continuity of state functions. They call on all political and institutional actors to engage in constructive dialogue aimed at permanently strengthening the constitutional framework, prioritizing national stability and citizen trust.

Recall that President Paul Biya left Yaoundé on June 7 for a private stay in Switzerland. More than a month later, the Head of State remains in Geneva, a situation that has triggered reactions from opposition figures and civil society organizations.