New decree places Franck Emmanuel Biya at the centre of Cameroon’s political succession and security structure following constitutional changes and disputed elections.

Cameroonian President Paul Biya has elevated his son, Franck Emmanuel Biya, to the powerful roles of Vice President and Head of the Armed Forces, in a move widely seen as tightening family control over the state amid lingering political unrest.

The appointments were confirmed in a presidential decree dated April 4, 2026, which also designates Franck Biya as Minister Delegate at the Ministry of Defence—effectively positioning him at the core of the country’s political and military command.

According to the official document, Franck Biya is now Vice President of the Republic, Head of the Armed Forces, and a key figure within the defence ministry. The presidency said the decision was made in accordance with constitutional and defence provisions, citing “service requirements” as justification. The decree is to be fast-tracked for publication in the Official Gazette.

The development comes shortly after Cameroon’s parliament approved a constitutional amendment reinstating the office of Vice President. Under the revised framework, the Vice President is next in line to assume power in the event of the president’s death, resignation, or incapacity—placing Franck Biya firmly in the succession pipeline.

The move follows President Biya’s controversial re-election to an eighth term after a hotly disputed vote that drew criticism both domestically and internationally. Official results gave Biya 54 percent of the vote, ahead of opposition challenger Issa Tchiroma Bakary, who secured 35 percent.

Bakary rejected the outcome, alleging widespread electoral irregularities, claims the government has consistently denied. The aftermath of the election has been marked by protests and heightened political tension across the country.

With these latest appointments, analysts say Cameroon may be entering a new phase of power consolidation, with the president’s inner circle—now led by his son—firmly entrenched at the helm of both governance and national security.