93-Yr-Old Cameroon President, Biya Appoints Son as Vice

Cameroon’s long-serving President, Paul Biya, has reportedly appointed his son, Franck Emmanuel Biya, to a series of powerful positions within the country’s political and military hierarchy, a move that is likely to stir debate at home and abroad.

According to an official decree dated 4 April 2026, Franck Biya has been named Vice President of the Republic, Head of the Armed Forces, and Minister Delegate at the Ministry of Defence — roles that place him at the very centre of Cameroon’s governance and security architecture.

The decree formally states that he is “appointed Vice President of the Republic of Cameroon” and “Head of the Armed Forces,” while also confirming his additional responsibility within the defence ministry.

Presidential authorities said the appointments were made in accordance with constitutional and defence provisions, citing “service requirements” as justification. The decree further noted that it would be processed under urgent procedures and published in the Official Gazette.

The development comes at a sensitive moment in Cameroon’s political landscape. President Biya, 92, was only recently sworn in for an unprecedented eighth term following a fiercely contested election that drew both domestic protests and international scrutiny.

Official results showed Biya securing 54 per cent of the vote, defeating opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary, who garnered 35 per cent. However, Tchiroma Bakary has rejected the outcome, alleging widespread electoral malpractice and insisting he was the rightful winner — claims firmly denied by the government.

Despite the controversy, President Biya described the election as “satisfactory” and praised the electoral body for its conduct. He also commended security forces for maintaining order during the protests, though he did not address allegations of excessive use of force raised by critics.

The appointment of his son to such influential positions is expected to intensify conversations around governance, succession, and democratic norms in Cameroon.