Brenda Biya, the 27-year-old daughter of Cameroon’s long-serving President Paul Biya, has stunned the nation after posting a bold video on TikTok criticizing her father’s decades-long rule, just days before the country’s October 12 general election.
In a country where public criticism of the Biya family is rare, Brenda’s message quickly went viral, sparking both outrage and admiration across social media.
Known for her lavish lifestyle and social media presence — often sharing photos of herself aboard private jets, wearing luxury brands like Prada and posing beside Rolls Royce cars — Brenda Biya has rarely spoken about politics.
But in her latest TikTok video, posted over the weekend, she appeared emotional as she questioned the state of democracy in Cameroon and called for “a new beginning” for the youth of her country.
“We deserve a future where voices are heard, not silenced,” she said. “Cameroon needs change — not fear.”
The comments were widely interpreted as a direct challenge to her 92-year-old father, who has ruled Cameroon for over 40 years, making him one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders.
While some young Cameroonians praised Brenda’s courage, others dismissed the move as a “family publicity stunt” meant to draw attention ahead of the elections.
Government officials and state media have not commented on her remarks, maintaining a strict silence on the issue.
Political analyst Jean-Claude Ndom, based in Douala, said Brenda’s message reflected growing frustration among Cameroon’s youth.
“Many young people feel excluded from leadership and opportunities. Her statement speaks to a generation that wants renewal,” he noted.
Brenda Biya, who studied in Switzerland and France, is no stranger to controversy. Her social media accounts often showcase her wearing Rolex watches and attending luxury events abroad, a sharp contrast to the economic struggles faced by many Cameroonians.
Her posts have earned her a reputation as one of Africa’s most flamboyant presidential children — and, now, one of the most outspoken.
As Cameroon heads into the elections, Brenda’s defiance has added new drama to the country’s tense political atmosphere.
Whether her statements will influence public opinion or simply fade into online chatter remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: for the first time, dissent has come from within the president’s own family.
