On 4 April 2026, the Cameroonian Parliament adopted a constitutional amendment reintroducing the post of vice-president, to be appointed by the Head of State, Paul Biya (aged 93), to ensure continuity of power in the event of a vacancy. Passed by a large majority with 200 votes in favour, 18 against and 4 abstentions, this reform is seen by the government as a guarantee of stability and by the opposition as a consolidation of the ruling power.
Cameroon is reaching an institutional turning point. On 4 April 2026, Parliament adopted a constitutional amendment reintroducing the post of vice-president, which had been abolished several decades ago. The future vice-president will be appointed directly by the Head of State, Paul Biya, and their main role will be to ensure the continuity of power in the event of a vacancy. The amendment was overwhel-mingly approved, with 200 votes in favour and 18 against. For the authorities, this reform aims to prevent any institutional crisis linked to a potential vacancy in the office. It would ensure a swift and managed transition, in a context where the issue of presidential succession remains a sensitive one.
The President, who holds the reins and the helm of the Republic, deemed it appropriate to send us this draft law today. Simply because he is the guarantor of the institutions. He alone is the judge of its timing. It was necessary for it to go through the Assembly so that the fundamental law could be amended.
MATHURIN BINDOA, RDPC MP – Cameroon
The government is thus advocating a mechanism capable of strengthening political stability and ensuring the smooth functioning of the state. Beyond institutional continuity, this reform introduces a new figure at the head of the executive. The vice-president could become a central player in the political arena, particularly in the event of a transition, although the opposition sees it more as a manoeuvre aimed at consolidating the ruling power and closely controlling the succession to the head of state.
Changing the Constitution is meant to adapt a Republic to modernity. It is intended to ensure that the foundational texts are better suited to the evolution of society.
BENILDE DJEUMENI, SDF MP – Cameroon
As for the Cameroonian authorities, the next step is expected to be the swift implementation of this constitutional amendment, with a view to the appointment of a vice-president by the Head of State, Paul Biya. This much-anticipated appointment could send a strong initial signal regarding the government’s intentions and the country’s political future.
