Paul Biya Appoints Son Franck as Vice President of Cameroon

On April 4, 2026, Cameroon’s President Paul Biya officially appointed his son, Franck Emmanuel Biya, as Vice President of the Republic and head of the armed forces. This appointment, outlined in a presidential decree, aims to further consolidate influence within Cameroon’s security structure.

The decree specifies that Franck Biya will simultaneously serve in a defense capacity. This decision comes shortly after the 92-year-old President Biya was sworn in for his eighth term, having reportedly won 54% of the vote against opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakari, who received 35%.

Tchiroma Bakari has accused the government of electoral fraud, a claim that the Cameroonian government denies. The election has drawn international attention due to concerns over the country's democratic processes.

Critics view the appointment of Franck Biya to such a powerful position as an intensification of the consolidation of power within the Biya family, which has ruled Cameroon since 1982.