Army vehicles were deployed to upgrade the road along which Biya’s long convoy travelled between the town and the airport. “The RDPC promised us tar and lights,” said a motorcycle taxi driver with a smile, referring to Biya’s ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement. Nine candidates will compete for the presidency, which Biya has held with an iron grip since 1982. Biya had been due to spend the night in Maroua but flew back to the capital Yaounde after just seven hours on the ground. By Saturday night, the customary hooting of motorcycle taxis had returned, replacing the incessant sirens of Biya’s extended, heavily-armed motorcade.

Source: The Guardian September 30, 2018 10:41 UTC