Paul Biya appoints son as Vice President, military chief amid rising tensions in Cameroon

President Paul Biya has appointed his son, Franck Emmanuel Biya, as Vice President of Cameroon and Head of the Armed Forces, in a move seen as consolidating control over the country’s political and military structures.

The appointment, announced in an official decree dated April 4, 2026, also designates Franck Biya as Minister Delegate at the Ministry of Defence, placing him at the centre of the nation’s security architecture.

According to the decree, the appointments were made in line with constitutional provisions and defence laws, citing “service requirements,” and directing that the decision be published with urgency in the Official Gazette.

The development comes just months after Biya, 92, was sworn in for an unprecedented eighth term following a disputed election that has sparked protests and drawn international scrutiny.

Biya secured 54 percent of the vote, defeating opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary, who garnered 35 percent but rejected the outcome, alleging electoral fraud — claims the government has denied.

Despite the controversy, Biya described the election as satisfactory and praised security forces for managing the protests, while the Constitutional Council dismissed petitions challenging the results.

Having ruled Cameroon since 1982 after succeeding Ahmadou Ahidjo, Biya now faces renewed criticism from opposition figures who accuse him of tightening his grip on power.

The elevation of his son to such powerful positions is expected to intensify concerns over succession planning, democratic governance, and the concentration of authority within the country’s leadership.

Observers say the move could further heighten political tensions as calls for reform continue to grow across the Central African nation.

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