President Paul Biya, whose whereabouts have remained a mystery to Cameroonians, will not preside over the 2024 Cameroon Cup finals scheduled for Sunday, September 29, at the Ahmadou Ahidjo Stadium in Yaoundé. This marks a significant break from tradition, as the President has historically graced the event.
In an official statement from the Star Building, it was announced that Prime Minister Joseph Dion Ngute will represent president Biya at this year’s Cameroon Cup final.
“The Prime Minister, Head of Government, Chief Dr. Joseph DION NGUTE, will, on the esteemed instructions of the President of the Republic, His Excellency Paul BIYA, preside over the 63rd edition of the end-of-year sports season, coupled with the 2024 Cameroon Football Cup Final, opposing Aigle Royal of Menoua to Colombe Sportive of Dja and Lobo, at Yaoundé Ahmadou Ahidjo Omnisports Stadium, on Sunday, 29th September 2024, as from 2:00 p.m.,” read the statement from the Prime Minister’s office. The statement, however, made no mention of the President’s location or the reason for his absence.
Biya ‘missing’ Since Departure from China
The whereabouts of President Biya have been a source of speculation since his departure from Beijing, where he attended the China-Africa summit earlier this month. On September 8, the Civil Cabinet of the Presidency announced Biya’s departure from China, but since then, there has been no official confirmation of his return to Cameroon.
Despite growing anticipation, there has been no sighting of the President’s aircraft landing in Yaoundé, leaving Cameroonians puzzled about his current location.
As the nation prepares for the Cameroon Cup final, an event typically marked by the President’s presence, Biya’s absence and the continued uncertainty surrounding his whereabouts have added an unusual layer of intrigue to this year’s sporting occasion.
