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In response to swirling rumours about the health of President Paul Biya, the Cameroonian government has issued a directive forbidding any media discussions regarding the matter. Interior Minister Paul Atanga Nji communicated this decision to regional governors, emphasizing that such stories "disturb the tranquillity of Cameroonians." He declared that "any debate in the media about the president's condition is therefore strictly prohibited," warning that violators would face legal consequences.

President Biya, who has been in power for over 40 years and is currently 91 years old, has not made a public appearance since attending a China-Africa forum in Beijing on 8 September. Despite this absence, multiple officials have rebuffed rumors about his well-being, asserting that President Biya is in good health and is currently on a private stay in Geneva, Switzerland. Nji highlighted that the president's health status is a national security issue and instructed governors to establish units to monitor compliance with the media ban across private media platforms and social media.

However, the media ban has sparked concerns among journalists who view it as an infringement on press freedom. One Cameroonian journalist, who spoke to the BBC anonymously, expressed that "mention should not be made of the president's [health] situation," arguing it impinges on their rights. He also noted that the restriction would significantly alter how they report news since they wish to avoid government retaliation.

The concerns extend to journalist safety, given the country's history of media professionals being targeted by both officials and insurgents. Incidents include kidnappings by Anglophone separatists and arrests by the government. Despite these risks, another journalist affirmed their commitment to reporting, indicating a willingness to cover the president's status even in the face of potential government retribution.

The matter has also drawn international attention, with the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) urging the Cameroonian government to cease its threats against journalists reporting on President Biya's condition and location. Angela Quintal, head of CPJ's Africa Programme, stated that the health of a leader who has been in power for 41 years and might run for re-election next year is of public interest, and censoring such information only fuels speculation. Quintal suggested that a public appearance by the president would effectively quash the rumors.

As the public and the media wait for further developments, there is an eager anticipation in Cameroon for President Biya's promised return in the coming days.