Why Cameroon must stand with paul biya during the vice-presidential selection process
On June 29, 2026, the Minister of Finance made a high-impact public statement regarding the restoration of Sonara. This intervention has effectively placed the minister back at the center of the ongoing discussions surrounding the national succession.
This resurgence in the political spotlight follows what appears to be a calculated effort by certain international publications to undermine Franck Biya. The motives behind these media attacks raise significant questions about the internal dynamics of the current power struggle.
Hostile narratives have recently surfaced, claiming that the Bulu elite and the youth in the South have rejected a potential candidacy from Franck Biya. However, these reports seem to reflect the growing apprehension that Franck Biya inspires in other contenders for the vice-presidency. Information from high-level circles suggests that prior to his trip to Switzerland, President Paul Biya was presented with two distinct proposals for the vice-presidency and a cabinet reshuffle—one originating from the First Lady’s office and another from the General Secretariat of the Presidency. The Head of State did not approve either plan. Furthermore, he opted for a non-standard travel protocol for his Swiss journey, where he was slated to hold working sessions with Franck Biya.
Allegations and the struggle within the deep state
Recently, various whistleblowers have attempted to implicate Franck Biya in scandals involving the gold trade. This is a clear indicator that the final battle within the deep state has commenced. The ongoing revelations surrounding the Martinez Zogo case and the gold-related investigations currently before the Special Criminal Court (TCS) are being monitored closely by the President. These legal and political maneuvers are expected to lead to the downfall of several high-ranking regime figures who harbor ambitions for the vice-presidency. As the announcement of a new vice-president and a ministerial reshuffle is delayed, more scandals continue to emerge, exposing the fierce appetite for power among certain factions.
This climate of uncertainty presents potential risks to the safety of the President. Following the Martinez Zogo affair, which highlighted troubling connections between security elements and business interests, the Head of State has increasingly relied on the BIR (Rapid Intervention Battalion). The commander of the Presidential Guard has reportedly moved his operations into the Etoudi palace to ensure tighter security. The BIR remains the elite unit used by President Paul Biya to safeguard national sovereignty.
International security agencies are also paying close attention to the situation in Cameroon. Given the risks of instability without a clear succession plan, United States intelligence has reportedly advised the President to limit his international travel. High-level security figures, including the director of the CIA, William Joseph Burns, have previously visited Yaoundé-Nsimalen for discreet meetings with Cameroonian intelligence chiefs. Even Donald Trump has been linked to the broader security framework surrounding the President. It is evident that Paul Biya retains full control over the nation’s strategic files. In the face of intense clan rivalries, his continued leadership is essential to ensuring a peaceful transition for all Cameroonians.
