A tale of two Francks? World’s oldest leader creates deputy role
Son and stepson of Cameroon’s Paul Biya are seen as main contenders to be vice-president
TL;DR
- Cameroon's constitution has been amended to reintroduce the role of vice-president, previously scrapped in 1972.
- Critics accuse President Paul Biya of establishing a 'republican monarchy' to facilitate a dynastic succession.
- Paul Biya's son, Franck Biya, and stepson, Franck Hertz, are considered frontrunners for the vice-president position.
- The amendment allows the vice-president to take over as head of state in case of the president's death or incapacity.
- Cameroon faces political impasses, postponed elections, and ongoing crises including the Anglophone conflict and jihadist insurgency.
- Internal power struggles among aides are reportedly destabilizing the government.