Cameroon’s parliament has approved a major constitutional amendment reinstating the position of vice president marking a significant shift in presidential succession.
The measure was adopted during a joint session of the National Assembly and the Senate in Yaoundé.
The amendment establishes a clear and automatic line of succession to ensure continuity in executive leadership.
Under the new framework the vice president will immediately assume the presidency in the event of death resignation or permanent incapacity of the president and complete the remainder of the seven year term.
The vice president will be appointed and dismissed exclusively by the president rather than through direct election.
The amendment also restricts a vice president who becomes president from running in the next election and from initiating constitutional changes during the interim period.
The role of prime minister remains in place while the vice president becomes the second highest authority in the state hierarchy.
The new system replaces the previous arrangement in which the Senate president served as interim head of state for up to one hundred twenty days pending elections.
Supporters say the reform is necessary to ensure stability amid discussions about succession.
Opposition groups argue the change concentrates executive power and lacks sufficient public consultation despite passing with a strong majority.
The vice presidency existed after reunification in 1961 before being abolished in 1972.
The amendment now awaits presidential approval to enter into force.
The reform is expected to reshape the country’s political landscape.
