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Why African leaders like Cameroon's President Paul Biya hides his health

BBC
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81% Informative

'You have to reflect a certain kind of man to dominate in politics - you can't show weakness or vulnerability', says Miles Tendi .

Political leaders, in Africa and beyond, are expected to be symbols of strength and resilience.

Dr Tendi says that the game of politics is a “performance of masculinity” that needs to be done to maintain power.

More than 20 African leaders have died in office, some without telling their country they were unwell.

Leaders may fear revealing health issues could embolden their rivals or even foreign powers.

Some leaders have been toppled after news of their ill health was publicised.

Calls for greater transparency when it comes to the health of their leaders.