Paul Biya becomes president of Cameroon

Ahmadou Ahidjo resigned as president of Cameroon, he was replaced by Paul Biya, the current Prime Minister. Ahidjo handpicked Biya to replace him after he had handed his resignation letter to the cabinet. However, when Biya became president he eliminated some of Ahidjo's policies and reshuffled the cabinet, and eventually Ahidjo was forced into exile. Biya has been heavily criticised by Cameroonians for his oppressive and forceful ruling tactics. Biya won another seven-year term in the presidential election of 11 October 2004, officially taking 70.92% of the vote, but the opposition has alleged widespread fraud. References: Bute, E.L. & Harmer, H.J.P. 1997. The Black Handbook, London: Cassell.