At 93, Paul Biya—who has been in power since 1982—is the world’s oldest serving head of state, and questions over succession have intensified in recent years.
Paul Biya, Cameroon’s long-serving President, has appointed his son, Franck Emmanuel Biya, as Vice President in a move that is fueling debate over succession and democratic governance in the Central African nation.
The appointment, confirmed in a presidential decree dated April 4, places Franck Biya in one of the most powerful positions in Cameroon. In addition to serving as Vice President, he will head the armed forces and take on a senior role within the defence ministry, consolidating both political and military authority.
The development follows the recent reinstatement of the vice presidency, a position reintroduced to ensure continuity in leadership. At 93, Paul Biya—who has been in power since 1982—is the world’s oldest serving head of state, and questions over succession have intensified in recent years.
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Government officials say the constitutional changes are intended to stabilise governance and provide a clear line of succession in the event of the president’s death or incapacity. Lawmakers approved the amendment during a joint sitting of parliament, with 200 voting in favour, 18 against and four abstaining. The bill now awaits presidential assent.
Under the revised constitution, the vice president, appointed by the president rather than elected, will assume the presidency for the remainder of the seven-year term if the office becomes vacant. Previously, the Senate president would take over temporarily pending fresh elections.
Supporters argue the reform will improve efficiency and ensure continuity in leadership, while allowing the Senate to focus on its legislative role.
However, opposition parties and critics have raised concerns over the lack of broad consultation and the implications for democracy. The Social Democratic Front boycotted the vote, calling instead for a system in which the vice president is elected alongside the president.
Critics say the appointment signals a consolidation of power within the ruling family, raising fears of a dynastic transition. They warn that concentrating both political and military authority in the hands of the president’s son could weaken democratic institutions.
Maurice Kamto, leader of the Cameroon Renaissance Movement, described the constitutional amendment as a “constitutional and institutional coup,” accusing the government of attempting to establish a “republican monarchy.”
The move comes in the wake of a disputed 2025 election that triggered protests and heightened political tensions across the country.
With Franck Biya now occupying a central role in government, attention is shifting to Cameroon’s political future—and whether the country is edging toward a hereditary-style transfer of power.
