The world's oldest head of state - 92-year-old Paul Biya - has promised Cameroon's electorate the best is still to come as he seeks his eighth consecutive presidential term on Sunday.
The nonagenarian has been in power since 1982, and another seven-year mandate could see him rule for 50 years until he turns nearly 100.
However, he has faced widespread criticism for his lack of engagement during the campaign, only attending one rally while spending significant time on a private trip abroad.
Despite this, Biya reached out to voters in the vote-rich city of Maroua, particularly women and young people, pledging to prioritize their needs if re-elected.
Political analysts argue that Biya's focus has largely been about maintaining his grip on power, sometimes at the expense of improving living conditions for many citizens.
With over 60% of Cameroon’s population being under the age of 25, young political activist Marie Flore Mboussi has expressed a craving for new blood in leadership roles, stating that many are tired after 43 years of Biya's rule.
The election arrives amid serious economic issues, including rampant inflation, widespread corruption, and an alarming youth unemployment rate of nearly 40% among 15 to 35-year-olds, leading many young graduates to consider emigration.
Critics have also raised concerns about the exclusion of opposition leader Maurice Kamto for the upcoming election; the process's legitimacy has faced widespread scrutiny.
The electoral landscape is complicated by a separatist conflict in the English-speaking regions, where a voting boycott is in effect due to violence and threats made against voters.
As Cameroon braces for a critical election, the question remains whether Biya can adapt to a nation yearning for change while holding onto the reins of power.
