Cameroon Considers Bringing Back Vice-President Role

Cameroon’s National Assembly and Senate began examining a constitutional amendment bill on Thursday that would reintroduce the position of vice-president.

The role, officials say, is intended to ensure continuity of government in the event of a presidential vacancy.

President Paul Biya, 93, has governed Cameroon since 1982 and is currently the world’s oldest serving head of state.

The country’s last major constitutional revision in 2008 removed presidential term limits.

The draft bill, seen by Reuters, specifies that the vice-president would be appointed and dismissed by the president and would serve only for the duration of the president’s current seven-year mandate.

Cameroon Considers Bringing Back Vice-President Role. Credit: Reuters

In the event of the president’s death, resignation, or permanent incapacity, the vice-president would complete the remainder of the term.

The interim vice-president would be barred from initiating constitutional amendments or running for office.

The ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) holds a majority in both houses of parliament, making the bill’s adoption likely.

The vice-presidency existed in Cameroon until 1972, when it was abolished following a constitutional referendum.

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Jimisayo Opanuga

Jimisayo Opanuga is a web writer in the Digital Department at News Central TV, where she covers African and international stories. Her reporting focuses on social issues, health, justice, and the environment, alongside general-interest news. She is passionate about telling stories that inform the public and give voice to underreported communities.