Cameroon’s parliament on Saturday approved a constitutional amendment creating the position of a vice president, despite strong refusal from opposition figures.
A total of 200 lawmakers voted in favour of the bill, while 18 opposed it and four ballots were declared invalid. Debate on the amendment began only days earlier in the capital, Yaoundé.
Leading opposition figure Maurice Kamto condemned the move, describing it as an attempt to consolidate power, in an address on Friday.
Under the new provision, the vice president would automatically assume office in the event of the president’s death, resignation, or incapacity, without the need for fresh elections. The change comes amid scrutiny of President Paul Biya, who, at 93, secured another term in a disputed election last October.
Supporters of the amendment argue that the introduction of a vice president will strengthen institutional stability and guarantee continuity in leadership. Critics, however, warn it could undermine democratic processes by removing the requirement for voters to elect a successor.
AFRICA NEWS