Paul Biya begins sixth 7-year term as Cameroonian president - The Cameroonian president, Paul Biya, re-elected on 9 October for his sixth term, was sworn in Thursday in Yaounde to mark the beginning of another seven-year term, PANA reported here. The event was witnessed by several top political and religious figures.

In his inaugural address, Biya reiterated his commitment to fight corruption and fraud, saying
'Too often, self-interest takes precedence over the general interest. This state of mind is the cause of social drifts that are fraud, corruption or crime.

'Even if unemployment, poverty and inequality may partially explain the decline in public morality, we will respond even more firmly against corruption.'

He promised to improve access to health care and quality medicines, better living conditions for the population and reduce costs for childhood diseases and pandemics. He also pledged to set up a health insurance.

On the election that gave him his sixth mandate, Biya said 'Steps were taken to ensure a free and fair election', adding that the exercise of civil liberties and respect of human rights were becoming more assured in the country.

He announced that shortly a Senate, a Constitutional Council and Regional Councils would be set up, and called on his compatriots, including those in the Diaspora, to put their skills and expertise at the disposal of the nation.

Pana 04/11/2011