In brief
While he has been away from the capital since June, President Paul Biya has issued decrees reshuffling key army positions. Five colonels were promoted to brigadier general, including the long‑serving commander of the presidential guard. The changes come after a recent coup in Gabon and persist amid doubts about his health and intentions to return. Critics argue that the president’s remote leadership creates a constitutional vacuum. The move has been seen as a familiar tactic to consolidate power when faced with public scrutiny.
Cameroonian President Paul Biya, now 93, has been seen signing military decrees while staying in Geneva. The latest order promoted five colonels to brigadier general and installed new commanders in key positions.
One of those promoted, Raymond Jean Charles Beko'o Abondo, was immediately re‑appointed as the commander of the presidential guard. He has held that post since 2013 and will again oversee the personal security details of President Biya.
The reshuffle follows a pattern of swift changes in Armed Forces leadership that Biya has used when pressure mounts from the public or when his own position appears shaky. The 8‑month vacancy in the vice‑presidential role and the unfilled cabinet post have raised concerns about a possible power vacuum.
Biya left Yaoundé on 7 June for a brief private stay in Geneva. Throughout that period, he has been signing decrees that authorize loan agreements with international financial institutions and appointing senior military officers. The absence has fueled speculation over his health, though government spokespeople deny that he is ill.
Press freedom advocates condemn the restrictions placed on journalists during allegations about Biya’s health, citing the government’s historical bans on reporting such matters. The Communications Minister has stated that Biya remains in charge and will soon return, yet critics see the long distance management as emblematic of a deeper constitutional crisis.
Within the metaverse, our digital avatars hosted a virtual press briefing where reporters can press questions directly to the ministry. Live commentary suggests that the changes will affect national security operations, especially in light of regional instability.
For more updates on Cameroon, stay tuned to our feeds. The story will be actively monitored for new developments as the situation unfolds.
