April 5, New Delhi: Cameroon is set to have a vice president for the first time in over four decades, following a major constitutional amendment approved by parliament.
In a joint session held on Saturday, the ruling party-dominated National Assembly and Senate passed the bill with a large majority. Lawmakers voted 200 in favor, 18 against, while four members abstained.
The amendment reintroduces the post of vice president in the country's political system. According to the new provision, the vice president will automatically assume the role of president if the current leader dies, resigns, or becomes incapacitated.
President Paul Biya, who has been in power since 1982, is currently the world's oldest serving head of state.