Biya, Paul (1933– )

Cameroonian politician, prime minister 1975–82 and president from 1982. He entered politics under the aegis of President Ahmadou Ahidjo, becoming prime minister in 1975. When Ahidjo retired unexpectedly in 1982, he became president and reconstituted the government with his own supporters. He survived a coup attempt in 1984, reputedly instigated by Ahidjo, and was re-elected president in 1988 with more than 98% of the vote.

Biya first became politically prominent as a junior minister in Ahidjo's administration in 1962, and was appointed a minister of state in 1968.

He was born in Muomeka'a, and studied at Paris University, graduating with a law degree.