Cameroon is on edge following reports that family members and top government officials have been urgently called to Switzerland, where the country’s 93-year-old President, Paul Biya, is believed to be facing a serious health crisis.

Among those who have reportedly rushed to Switzerland is the President’s son, Franck Biya, along with a group of senior state delegates who do not usually travel with the head of state.

The sudden move has sparked intense speculation about the future of Africa’s oldest sitting President. Biya practically vanished from the public eye ahead of last year’s elections, only to reappear for a few brief campaign appearances. After winning the vote, he quietly slipped back to Europe for medical care.

Geopolitical Analyst Aaron Nga’mbi warns that if the worst happens, the country could face a messy power struggle. While the constitution sets out a clear path for a transition, Nga’mbi says the reality on the ground is bound to be much more chaotic.

According to Nga’mbi, certain factions within the government have tried to keep Biya in office for as long as possible because they directly benefit from his Presidency. He points out that Biya’s permanent absence is likely to trigger severe infighting and fracture the ruling party, especially since some of his fiercest political rivals are former cabinet Ministers who have already broken away from his inner circle.

–ChannelAfrica–