Ahmadou Babatoura Ahidjo (1924–1989) led Cameroon at independence, serving as its first president from 1960 to 1982 after previously being prime minister.
Cameroon’s 93-year-old president has left for what officials call a brief private stay in Europe and has not returned. Critics say the absence raises questions about governance amid constitutional limits, military challenges, and protests following the 2025 reelection.