Cameroon President Paul Biya returned home on Thursday after more than 10 weeks abroad, ending the longest recorded absence from the country since he took power more than four decades ago.

The 93-year-old leader arrived at Yaounde's Nsimalen International Airport aboard a chartered flight from Geneva, Switzerland, amid months of speculation over his health and ability to govern.

Biya, the world's oldest head of state, left Cameroon on June 7 for what the presidency described at the time as a "brief private stay in Europe." His prolonged absence fueled questions about his health and raised concerns over political succession in the Central African country.

Biya arrived at around 4:45 p.m. local time (1545 GMT), accompanied by First Lady Chantal Biya. He later traveled by motorcade to the Etoudi Unity Palace, the official presidential residence.

Hundreds of supporters of the ruling Cameroon People's Democratic Movement (CPDM) gathered along the streets of the capital to welcome the president. Waving party flags and banners praising Biya, supporters cheered as he waved to them through a partially open window of his vehicle.

The president's lengthy stay abroad had prompted widespread speculation despite repeated assurances from government officials that he would soon return.

Opposition politicians had called on Cameroon's Constitutional Council to determine whether an interim head of state should assume presidential duties during Biya's absence. The council, however, took no action.

Under Cameroon's constitution, if the presidency becomes vacant because of death, resignation or permanent incapacity, the president of the Senate is expected to assume interim duties when there is no vice president.

Biya has not appointed a vice president despite the reintroduction of the position in April. Critics argue that the absence of a clearly established succession arrangement could create uncertainty if the president becomes unable to govern.

Biya has ruled Cameroon since 1982, making him one of the world's longest-serving leaders. His return is likely to ease immediate concerns over his whereabouts, but questions surrounding his health, the country's political future and the eventual transfer of power remain unresolved. (ILKHA)