Cameroonians are wondering who Biya will appoint as vice president and possible successor. Cameroonian President Paul Biya, 93, is once again the subject of death rumours. Africa’s longest-serving president, known for his long stays away from the Central African nation he governs, only recently returned home from one of his longest stints abroad. His long absence renewed speculation about his health amid unconfirmed reports that he had been hospitalised or had even died.