The 4th Congress of the ruling Cameroon People Democratic Movement, CPDM that was announced for September 2016 did not take place due to the absence of its national chairman President Paul Biya.  Cameroon Intelligence Report learned from highly placed government sources that after taking part in the 71st Regular Session of the UN General Assembly that held in New York, President Biya did not return home. His absence led to the cancellation of the holding of the 4th Congress of the CPDM party.

The Minister of Labour and Social Insurance who also is the Deputy Secretary General of the Central Committee of the ruling CPDM, Gregoire Owona has recently been dabbling to defend the chaotic situation that has rocked the party. Holding the congress after September is now unlawful as the national chairman has exceeded his five year term. The mandate of the head of state is now obsolete and Eloi Bidoung, CPDM deputy mayor for Yaoundé VI has indicated his willingness to run for the party presidency in the next congress.

Paul Biya was re-elected head of the party at the last congress held on the 15th and 16^th of September 2011. The party also hinted of a possible renewal of leadership in the political bureau including leaders of the women and youth wings of the party.

By Rita Akana