Cameroon intellectuals call for constitutional transition framework

A collective of eleven prominent Cameroonian intellectuals, jurists, journalists, and artists has called for an organized constitutional transition to manage the eventual succession of President Paul Biya. In a public tribune released in early October 2026, the signatories argue that the country is facing an institutional crisis, describing the current administration as functioning on ‘automatic pilot’ and suggesting a de facto vacancy of power.

The group, which includes figures such as historian Achille Mbembe and lawyer Akere Muna, emphasizes that their proposal is not a personal attack on the Head of State. Instead, they advocate for establishing a clear, time-limited legal framework for succession to prevent a chaotic power vacuum. They urge political, religious, and civil institutions to prepare for an orderly transition before urgent circumstances force a crisis.

Under the current Constitution, if a vacancy occurs, the President of the Senate is tasked with interim leadership, though this role is restricted from modifying the Constitution or organizing referendums. The collective seeks to define the principles of legitimacy for any future successor well in advance.