World’s Oldest Leader to Get Deputy for First Time in 43-Year Rule

Cameroon’s longest-serving leader, President Paul Biya, is set to appoint a vice-president for the first time during his 43-year tenure following controversial constitutional amendments approved by parliament. The role, which had been abolished in 1972, will now be reinstated, allowing the vice-president to assume the presidency if Biya becomes incapacitated or passes away. The new law mandates that the vice-president, nominated by the president rather than elected, will serve the remainder of the seven-year term.

Opposition Criticizes Rapid Changes

The opposition argued that the amendments were hastily drafted and aimed at centralizing authority. One senator from Biya’s party described the process as “suspicious,” while the Social Democratic Front (SDF) accused the ruling party of bypassing broad consultations. The SDF, which has six parliamentary representatives, boycotted the vote, pushing instead for a system where the vice-president would be jointly elected with the president. They also sought a constitutional clause reflecting the linguistic divide between English and French-speaking regions.

“This constitutional reform could have been a moment of political courage, but it is nothing less than a missed historic opportunity,” said SDF chairman Joshua Osih.

Parliamentary Approval and Process

A joint session of Cameroon’s parliamentary houses passed the bill on Saturday, with 200 lawmakers in favor, 18 opposing, and four abstaining. The president’s signature is now required for the amendment to take effect. Supporters claim the change will improve governance efficiency by assigning the vice-president a formal role in leadership transitions. It also aims to reduce the Senate’s burden in succession matters, allowing it to focus on legislative duties.

Before the 1972 referendum that shifted Cameroon to a unitary system, the vice-president role existed. During that period, the position was intended to ensure continuity if the president was unable to serve. However, the office was later eliminated, leaving the Senate leader to temporarily assume the presidency until a new election. With the reinstatement of the role, public speculation has intensified about Biya’s health and who will hold the new position.

Legacy and Uncertainty

Biya’s extended rule, which began in November 1982, has sparked debates about succession. Despite the reinstatement of the vice-president, the future of Cameroon after Biya remains unclear. His eighth term was secured in October’s election with 53.7% of the vote, a result the opposition claimed was manipulated. Now, national attention is focused on the selection of Biya’s deputy, with critics accusing the ruling party of consolidating power through institutional adjustments.

Meanwhile, Maurice Kamto of the Cameroon Renaissance Movement called the amendment a “constitutional and institutional coup.” He argued the move reflects Biya’s bid to create a “republican monarchy,” with plans to launch an online campaign against the reform. As the nation awaits the vice-president’s appointment, tensions over political representation and power dynamics persist.

Follow BBC Africa on social media for updates: @BBCAfrica, Facebook, or Instagram.