Cameroon’s long-serving president, Paul Biya, has reportedly appointed his son as vice-president and placed him in charge of military operations, a move that is already stirring political controversy and raising concerns about succession in the Central African nation.
The development comes shortly after recent constitutional amendments created the position of vice-president for the first time in over four decades. Under the new arrangement, the vice-president automatically assumes office and completes the presidential term if the sitting president dies or becomes incapacitated.
According to reports, Biya’s decision to appoint a close family member to the newly established role has intensified criticism from opposition groups, who had earlier described the constitutional changes as a strategy to consolidate power.
The additional move to hand over military command to his son has further heightened tensions, with critics warning that it could blur the lines between state authority and personal control.
Opposition figures argue that the decision undermines democratic principles and risks turning the country’s leadership structure into a hereditary system. Some have described the development as a dangerous precedent that could weaken institutional independence and accountability.
Supporters of the government, however, are expected to defend the move as a step toward ensuring continuity and stability, especially given ongoing concerns about leadership succession.
Cameroon has been under Biya’s rule since 1982, making him one of the longest-serving leaders in the world. His extended tenure has frequently sparked debate over governance, transparency, and the future political direction of the country.
The recent constitutional reform already shifted succession powers from the Senate to the newly created vice-presidential office. With this latest development, attention is now firmly focused on how the changes will shape Cameroon’s political landscape in the years ahead.
As reactions continue to emerge, analysts say the move could deepen divisions within the country’s political space and reignite broader discussions about democratic reforms and institutional balance.
