Cameroon’s long-serving president, Paul Biya, has reportedly appointed his son, Franck Emmanuel Biya, to several powerful positions within the country’s leadership structure.
According to an official decree dated April 4, 2026, Franck Biya has been named Vice President of the Republic, Head of the Armed Forces, and Minister Delegate at the Ministry of Defence—roles that place him at the centre of Cameroon’s political and security apparatus.
The decree explicitly states that Franck Emmanuel Biya is appointed Vice President of the Republic of Cameroon and Head of the Armed Forces. It further confirms his additional role as Minister Delegate at the Ministry of Defence.
Citing relevant constitutional and defence provisions, the presidency said the appointments were made in line with “service requirements.” It added that the decree would be urgently registered, published, and included in the country’s Official Gazette.
The development comes just months after President Biya, 92, was sworn in for an unprecedented eighth term in office following a highly contested election that triggered protests and drew international attention.
In the election, Biya secured 54 percent of the vote, defeating opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary, who garnered 35 percent. Tchiroma Bakary rejected the outcome, alleging electoral fraud and insisting he was the rightful winner—claims the government has denied.
President Biya described the election as “satisfactory,” commending the electoral body and security forces for maintaining order during the protests, though he did not address allegations of excessive use of force.
