Cameroon is witnessing widespread protests after the political opposition rejected the official results of President Paul Biya’s re-election. Opposition leaders and supporters allege that the 92-year-old incumbent manipulated the October 12 polls to prolong his more than four-decade rule.

Meanwhile, more than 24 hours have passed since Biya was declared the winner, and not a single African leader—whether a head of state or a prominent political figure—has publicly congratulated him.

This collective silence is a stark departure from usual diplomatic practice, suggesting that regional leaders are deliberately distancing themselves from the controversial outcome.