Cameroonian President Paul Biya has signed into law legislation reinstating the office of vice president, marking a significant shift in the country’s executive structure more than four decades after the position was abolished.
The move follows approval by parliament more than a week earlier, completing the final step in the legislative process. Officials say the reform is intended to clarify presidential succession and strengthen continuity at the highest level of government.
The vice presidency had been absent since 1984, when a constitutional revision removed the office and consolidated executive functions under the presidency and the prime minister.
Since then, Cameroon has operated without a formal second-in-command to the head of state, relying instead on existing constitutional mechanisms and appointed officials to manage transitions in leadership when necessary.
The newly signed law establishes that the vice president will be appointed directly by the president and will assume the role of head of state in the event of a presidential vacancy.
Lawmakers have described the change as part of a broader effort to reduce uncertainty around succession and reinforce institutional stability.
The reform reintroduces a dual executive structure that had been absent since the mid-1980s and represents one of the most notable constitutional adjustments in recent years.
Under the updated framework, the president retains authority over the selection of the vice president, a feature that has sparked discussion among political observers about the balance of power within the executive branch.
Supporters of the law argue that a clearly defined successor strengthens governance continuity, particularly during periods of political transition. Critics, however, note that the appointment process keeps significant control within the presidency.
The office of prime minister remains in place and continues to serve as head of government, coordinating administrative functions and implementing policy under presidential authority.
This structure reflects Cameroon’s long-standing governance model, which blends centralized executive power with delegated administrative leadership.
Analysts say the introduction of a vice president may alter internal dynamics within the executive, depending on how responsibilities are assigned in practice.
Cameroon now awaits President Biya’s appointment of the first vice president in over 40 years. The selection is expected to be closely watched, as it will determine the individual positioned directly in line for the presidency under the new law.
The government has not provided a timeline for the announcement, but officials indicate that the process will follow established legal procedures.
Observers say the reform comes at a time when many African states continue to refine constitutional arrangements to address succession planning and political stability.
