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Constitutional change introduces vice-presidency
Cameroon's parliament has approved a constitutional amendment to reinstate the vice-president position, a role abolished in 1972, as President Paul Biya, 93, nears the end of his four-decade rule. The move allows the appointed vice-president to complete Biya's term if he dies or becomes incapacitated, replacing the previous system where the Senate leader temporarily assumed power until a new election.
Controversial passage sparks opposition backlash
The bill passed on Saturday with 200 lawmakers in favor, 18 against, and four abstentions. Critics, including opposition parties, condemned the process as rushed and lacking broad consultation. The Social Democratic Front (SDF), which boycotted the vote, argued the reform missed an opportunity to address Cameroon's linguistic divide between English and French-speaking regions.
"This constitutional reform could have been a moment of political courage, but it is nothing less than a missed historic opportunity."
Joshua Osih, SDF chairman
Opposition denounces power consolidation
Maurice Kamto, leader of the Cameroon Renaissance Movement, called the amendment a "constitutional and institutional coup," accusing Biya's party of establishing a "republican monarchy." Kamto announced plans to launch an online campaign against the changes. Supporters, however, argue the reform will improve government efficiency by clarifying succession procedures.
Historical context and succession debate
The vice-president role existed under Cameroon's federal system from 1961 to 1972, when a referendum transitioned the country to a unitary state and abolished the position. Biya, who has ruled since 1982, won an eighth term last October with 53.7% of the vote, a result the opposition claims was rigged. His health has long been a subject of private speculation, though public discussion remains taboo.
Uncertainty over vice-president's identity
The amendment stipulates the vice-president will be appointed by Biya, not elected. With the changes now awaiting his signature, national attention has shifted to speculation about who will fill the new role. The SDF had pushed for the vice-president to be jointly elected with the president, a proposal that was rejected.
