Cameroon Reintroduces Vice Presidency: Constitutional Change Amid Succession Speculation
Cameroon's President Paul Biya has signed into law a bill reinstating the vice presidency, a position abolished in the 1970s, in a move that has sparked both support and criticism. The decision, announced this week, grants the president the authority to appoint a vice president who would assume the presidency should the office become vacant, according to multiple reports.
The bill, which was passed by a joint session of the National Assembly and Senate, was boycotted by the main opposition party. Reports indicate that the vote was 200 in favor, 18 against, with four abstentions.
Coverage Comparison
Reports on the development share several core facts but differ on key details. All accounts confirm that the vice presidency was abolished in the 1970s, though the exact year is disputed, with some reporting 1972 and others 1984. The new law, as reported by multiple outlets, allows the president to appoint a vice president who would act as an interim president in case of a vacancy, but only for the remainder of the seven-year term.
However, reports diverge on the timeline and process. One report states that President Biya signed the bill on Tuesday, following a parliament vote a week earlier. Another report mentions a draft bill submitted to parliament on April 2, 2026, though this detail has not been independently confirmed.
A significant point of contention is the potential appointment of the president's son, Franck Biya, to the vice presidency. Some reports assert that he has been appointed, citing a presidential decree. However, other reports describe these as rumors that have been denied by officials but have not been withdrawn.
Key Claims
- President Paul Biya has signed a bill to reestablish the vice presidency.
- The position was abolished in the 1970s.
- The vice president will be appointed by the president and will serve as interim president for the remainder of the term if the presidency becomes vacant.
- The president has the authority to appoint and dismiss the vice president at will.
- Reports are conflicting on whether Franck Biya has been appointed as vice president.
Perspectives
Supporters of the reform, such as ruling party lawmaker Tabouli Célestin, argue that the change will contribute to the proper and harmonious functioning of institutions.
Opposition figures and critics have voiced strong disapproval. The opposition Social Democratic Front (SDF) issued a statement saying the amendment 'fails to guarantee democratic legitimacy, inclusiveness, and proper institutional balance.' SDF member of parliament Fusi Namukong said, 'It's not democratic. This is a republic, and in a republic, those who wield power at the highest level of the state should be elected and not appointed.'
The Cameroon Bar Association has also warned that the amendment 'erodes the democratic legitimacy (of) the presidential office', and critics have expressed concern that the change could 'pave the way for a monarchy.'