• Parliament approves constitutional reform establishing a vice president

• New role replaces Senate head in line of succession

• Move raises questions about democratic legitimacy and executive power

Cameroon’s Parliament on Saturday, April 4, approved a constitutional revision creating the position of vice president, according to a statement released by the National Assembly on April 5.

“Your representatives, meeting in Congress, have reached a decision. They voted and adopted by an absolute majority the bill amending certain provisions of our Constitution. Pending promulgation by the president of the Republic, the position of vice president is now established in Cameroon,” said National Assembly Speaker Théodore Datouo.

According to Justice Minister Laurent Esso, the reform is intended to strengthen the effectiveness of the state. The vice president, who will be appointed and can be dismissed by the head of state, will exercise powers delegated by the president, without altering the president’s dominant role in the political system.

The reform amends several key articles of the Constitution, including Articles 5, 6, 7, 10, 53, and 66. It introduces a major change to the rules governing succession at the top of the state. In the event of a vacancy in the presidency, the vice president will now automatically assume office and complete the remaining term. This replaces the previous system, under which the president of the Senate served as interim leader before a new election was held.

“Cameroon is entering a new phase, with greater unity, stability, and prosperity. Our country is ready to meet the major challenges of modern times,” Datouo added.

The reform has sparked debate within the political class, particularly over the democratic legitimacy of a vice president who is not elected and the implications of a succession process now confined within the executive branch. Some observers argue the change could strengthen institutional stability, while others warn it may concentrate more power in the presidency.

Despite these concerns, the constitutional revision passed with 200 votes in favor, 18 against, and 4 abstentions.

Carelle Yourann (intern)