RismadarVoice Reporters, April 6, 2026
Caameroon’s long-serving president, Paul Biya, has appointed his son Franck Emmanuel Biya as Vice President of the Republic and Head of the Armed Forces, according to an official decree dated April 4, 2026.
The appointment, reported by international news agencies including Reuters, also names Franck Emmanuel Biya as Minister Delegate at the Ministry of Defence, effectively placing him at the center of the country’s military and security structure.
The decision comes only months after the 93-year-old president was sworn in for a controversial eighth term in office, following an election widely criticized by opposition groups and international observers. The vote triggered protests across parts of the country, with critics accusing the government of suppressing dissent.
Constitutional Amendment Clears Path
Before announcing the appointment, President Biya secured parliamentary approval for a constitutional amendment reintroducing the position of Vice President a role that had previously been removed from Cameroon’s political structure.
During a joint session of the National Assembly and Senate on April 4, lawmakers voted 200 to 18 in favor, with four abstentions, to pass the amendment. The parliament is largely dominated by the ruling party.
Government officials say the move was designed to ensure political continuity and stability. However, many analysts view it differently.
Political analysts and opposition figures say the development appears to consolidate power within the Biya family, fueling speculation that the president is preparing his son to eventually succeed him.
If that interpretation proves accurate according to observers, it could mark one of the most explicit attempts at dynastic succession in modern African politics, particularly in a country already dealing with significant political and security challenges.
