Paul Biya, President of Cameroon, has reportedly appointed his son, Franck Emmanuel Biya, as Vice President of the Republic and Head of the Armed Forces.
The appointment, contained 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 country’s security architecture.
According to the document, Franck Biya has been named Vice President of the Republic and Head of the Armed Forces, in addition to assuming responsibilities within the defence ministry.
The presidency said the appointments were made in line with constitutional provisions and defence laws, citing “service requirements.” It added that the decree would be formally registered, published under urgent procedure, and gazetted.
The development comes months after Biya, aged 92, was sworn in for an eighth term in office following a disputed election that triggered protests and drew international attention.
He was declared winner with 54 percent of the vote, defeating Issa Tchiroma Bakary, who secured 35 percent. The opposition candidate rejected the outcome, alleging electoral fraud, an accusation the government has denied.
Biya, however, described the election as satisfactory, commending the electoral body and security forces for maintaining order during the post-election unrest, without addressing claims of excessive force.
