Hard Numbers

The world’s oldest president returns to his post

He’s back! The 93-year-old finally returned from his “brief private stay in Europe,” during which rumors abounded about his health and ability to govern. Biya, the world’s oldest president, has led the Central African country since 1982 and has previously disappeared from public view for extended periods. Many worry about what would happen if Biya can no longer govern. Decades of political repression have weakened civil society and political opposition, and Biya’s death or incapacitation could trigger a contested succession and create a significant political vacuum.

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