Cameroon's President Paul Biya has returned to the country after spending about two and a half months abroad, following an extended stay in Geneva that had sparked concerns over his health and the continuity of government.

The 93-year-old Biya, the world's oldest serving head of state, left Cameroon for Geneva in June for what his office described as a short private stay. However, his absence continued for several weeks, attracting significant media attention and prompting questions about who was exercising presidential authority.

Speculation over the President's health intensified during his prolonged absence. An opposition lawmaker subsequently petitioned the Constitutional Council to declare the presidency vacant, raising further concerns about the country's succession arrangements.

Despite his absence, Biya continued to exercise presidential functions remotely. He signed several presidential decrees, while official government social media accounts continued to publish statements and messages in his name.

Biya's return is expected to ease immediate concerns about the functioning of the government, but questions surrounding presidential succession and institutional continuity are likely to remain.

— CHANNELS