Cameroon's ruling party called a rare meeting of senior leaders on Wednesday as questions arose over the continued absence of President Paul Biya, 93, who has spent the last 45 days abroad.

Biya left Cameroon on June 7 for what the civil cabinet described as "a brief private stay in Europe" and has since not returned. The government has provided no information as to when he might be back.

Jean Nkuete, secretary-general of the central committee of the Cameroon People's Democratic Movement (CPDM), who summoned the meeting, did not disclose its agenda, describing it in a statement only as "an important working session." There was no immediate indication that the meeting was linked to Biya's prolonged absence from public view.

President Biya's current overseas trip is his longest yet. After a similarly extended period out of the country in 2024, the government banned discussion of Biya's health.

Newly introduced role of vice-president

That has not stopped some opposition figures from commenting on Biya's absence.

The Cameroon Democratic Union, an opposition party, said in a statement on July 18 that officials should "provide the nation with the necessary clarifications regarding the effective continuity of the state."

A government spokesperson did not respond to a request for comment. The government has previously dismissed reports that Biya is receiving medical treatment and said he can effectively run the country from overseas.

Lawmakers in April approved the re-introduction of the role of vice president, who would be first in line to succeed Biya, but the role has not been filled. Biya has also not appointed a new government despite having won re-election last October.