Cameroon’s President Paul Biya,,has appointed his son, Franck Emmanuel Biya, as the new Vice President of This appointment has been confirmed via a presidential decree on April 4, 2026, also makes him the Head of the Armed Forces and Minister Delegate at the Ministry of Defence.
Prior his appointment, Franck Emmanuel Biya was a businessman and not officially part of the Cameroon government structure, though he was known to have worked as an advisor to the President.
The position was scrapped in 1972. leaving the 93 year old man rule freely .
A joint sitting of both houses of parliament on Saturday passed the bill changing the constitution, which now requires the president’s signature, with 200 lawmakers voting in favour, 18 against and four abstaining.
Supporters said the bill would enhance government efficiency as it would elevate the level of representation whenever an official is required to stand in for the president. It would also lift the burden of succession from the Senate to enable it to focus on its legislative functions.
The approved bill now stipulates that the Vice-President – appointed by the president rather than elected – will become the head of state to serve out the rest of the seven-year term.
Maurice Kamto of the Cameroon Renaissance Movement said the amendment amounted to a “constitutional and institutional coup” by the ruling party.
In a statement, he argued that the incumbent was seeking a “republican monarchy,” and announced his intention to launch an online campaign to denounce the move.
November 6, 1982. He succeeded the country’s first president, Amadou Ahidjo, who resigned unexpectedly due to health reasons. As of early 2026, Biya is the world’s oldest serving head of state, having ruled for over four decades
Previously the Prime Minister, Biya assumed the presidency following the resignation of his predecessor
He has maintained power since 1982, surviving a coup attempt in 1984 and winning multiple elections
As of April 2026, he continues to lead the country, with his current term extending following his 2025 reelection.
