Sh*ck Move: Cameroon’s President Biya Names His Son Vice President

According to Ireporter Online, Cameroon’s President Paul Biya has appointed his son, Franck Emmanuel Biya, as Vice President of the Republic and Head of the Armed Forces, positioning him at the center of the nation’s political and military leadership.

The appointment was formalized in an official decree dated April 4, 2026, which also named Franck Biya as Minister Delegate at the Ministry of Defence, further consolidating his influence within Cameroon’s security apparatus.

The decree stated, “Mr Franck Emmanuel BIYA is appointed Vice President of the Republic of Cameroon” and “Mr Franck Emmanuel BIYA is appointed Head of the Armed Forces.” It added that he would simultaneously serve as Minister Delegate at the Ministry of Defence.

The presidency indicated that the appointments were made in accordance with constitutional provisions and defence laws, citing “service requirements,” and noted that the decree would be published urgently in the Official Gazette.

The development comes months after the 92-year-old president was sworn in for an eighth term following a controversial election, in which he reportedly secured 54 per cent of the vote against opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary, who garnered 35 per cent. Tchiroma Bakary rejected the results, alleging electoral fraud, though the government denied the claims.

The election prompted nationwide protests and drew international scrutiny over the country’s democratic processes. Biya described the election as “satisfactory” and commended security forces for managing unrest, while the Constitutional Council later dismissed multiple petitions challenging the results.

Biya has governed Cameroon since 1982, succeeding former president Ahmadou Ahidjo, making him one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders. Critics warn that the appointment of his son to key positions may intensify concerns over the concentration of power within the president’s family.