A tale of two Francks? World’s oldest leader creates deputy role Cameroon’s President Paul Biya has amended the constitution to reintroduce the vice-president role, appointed by the president, with critics alleging this is a move to establish a dynastic monarchy. Speculation is rife that either his son Franck Biya or stepson Franck Hertz will be appointed, despite neither having public office experience. This change occurs amid prolonged political stagnation, postponed elections, and simmering national crises, with internal power struggles reportedly threatening the government’s stability.

• 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.