Cameroon’s President Paul Biya has appointed his son, Franck Emmanuel Biya, as Vice President and Head of the Armed Forces.

The official decree, dated April 4, 2026, also designates Franck Biya as Minister Delegate at the Ministry of Defence, placing him at the center of Cameroon’s security apparatus.

The decree explicitly states: “Mr Franck Emmanuel BIYA is appointed Vice President of the Republic of Cameroon.”

It also confirms: “Mr Franck Emmanuel BIYA is appointed Head of the Armed Forces.”

Additionally, the document 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.”

The presidency explained that the appointments follow constitutional and defense law requirements, emphasizing that the decree will be urgently published and included in the Official Gazette.

This move comes months after Biya, 92, began an unprecedented eighth term following a contested election that triggered nationwide protests and drew international attention.

Biya won 54 percent of the vote, defeating opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary, who received 35 percent and rejected the results, alleging electoral fraud. The government denied these claims.

Biya described the election as satisfactory, praised the electoral commission, and commended security forces for managing protests, without addressing claims of excessive force.

The Constitutional Council dismissed challenges to the results, citing insufficient evidence or lack of jurisdiction.

Having ruled Cameroon since 1982 after succeeding former president Ahmadou Ahidjo, Biya now faces criticism from opponents accusing him of consolidating power through both political and military channels.