On April 4, 2026, the Cameroon National Assembly and Senate overwhelmingly voted to reintroduce the position of vice president, a role that has been absent since 1972. The new amendment allows Biya, who has led the nation since November 1982, to appoint a vice president who will automatically succeed him in the event of death or incapacitation.

The vote saw 200 lawmakers in favor, 18 against, and four abstentions. Biya has 15 days to sign the bill into law. Government officials argue that this reform is necessary for ensuring continuity and enhancing the efficiency of governance, as it relieves the Senate from temporarily taking on presidential duties.

However, opponents argue the amendment consolidates power within Biya's administration and limits democratic processes. Members of the opposition, particularly the Social Democratic Front (SDF), criticized the amendment for lack of broad consultation and called it a "constitutional and institutional coup." They highlighted the need for the vice president to be jointly elected with the president, reflecting the country's linguistic diversity by providing representation for both Francophone and Anglophone communities.

The reintroduction of the vice presidency has reignited discussions about Biya's succession and the future governance of Cameroon, particularly given the ongoing civil conflict and national discontent over various issues. The speculation surrounding who will assume the new position adds another layer of complexity to Cameroon’s political landscape as it navigates through historical grievances and contemporary challenges.