By Kingston Magare 6.4.2026
In what appears to be the crowning of his successor Cameroon President Paul Biya, has appointed his son Franck Emmanuel Biya, as Vice President and Head of the Armed Forces of Cameroon.
The 92-year-old Biya won a disputed elections last October and was sworn in for his 8th term in office. He has been in the saddle of Cameroonian affairs since 1982 making him the oldest serving President in the world. The latest move is seen as consolidation of his power and control over Cameroon political and military commands.
A decree dated April 4, 2026, also designated Franck Biya as Minister Delegate at the Ministry of Defence, placing him at the centre of Cameroon’s security architecture.
The document states: “Mr Franck Emmanuel BIYA is appointed Vice President of the Republic of Cameroon.”
: “Mr Franck Emmanuel BIYA is appointed Head of the Armed Forces.”
Expanding his role, the decree notes: “The Vice President of the Republic, Mr Franck Emmanuel BIYA, is also appointed Minister Delegate at the Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Cameroon.”
Citing constitutional provisions and defence laws, the presidency said the appointments were made in line with “service requirements,” adding that the decree “shall be registered, published according to the procedure of urgency, and inserted in the Official Gazette.”