What's happened
Cameroon has passed a law consolidating presidential power, including appointing the vice president, with Biya expected to sign. Zimbabwe is considering extending Mnangagwa's term to 2030, shifting to parliamentary election of the president. Both countries face opposition criticism and protests.
What's behind the headline?
The constitutional changes in Cameroon and Zimbabwe reflect a broader trend of authoritarian consolidation under the guise of stability. Cameroon’s law grants President Biya near-absolute control over the vice presidency, effectively eroding checks and balances. Critics argue this move undermines democratic principles, especially given Biya’s long tenure since 1982 and the opposition’s claims of a rigged election. Zimbabwe’s proposed amendments aim to extend Mnangagwa’s rule until 2030, shifting presidential selection from direct vote to parliamentary appointment, which consolidates ruling party dominance. The public hearings in Zimbabwe have been marred by violence, intimidation, and exclusion of dissenting voices, raising questions about the legitimacy of the process. Both cases exemplify how constitutional reforms are being used to entrench power rather than promote democratic governance. The international community and local opposition will likely continue to challenge these moves, but the ruling parties appear committed to maintaining control, risking further unrest and legitimacy crises.
How we got here
Cameroon reintroduced the vice presidency in 2026, abolishing it in 1972, as part of constitutional reforms supported by the ruling party. Zimbabwe is debating amendments to extend presidential and parliamentary terms, with public consultations marred by violence and opposition claims of unfair process. Both countries are navigating long-standing issues of governance and democratic legitimacy.
Our analysis
All Africa reports highlight the swift passage of Cameroon’s law, emphasizing the absolute presidential control and opposition criticism of power consolidation. AP News provides details on Zimbabwe’s controversial amendments, noting the violence at public hearings and opposition concerns about legitimacy. Al Jazeera offers insight into the public protests and the atmosphere of intimidation during Zimbabwe’s constitutional debates, illustrating the deep divisions and the potential for ongoing unrest. The contrasting coverage underscores the pattern of authoritarian tendencies in both countries, with Cameroon’s move seen as a step towards unchecked executive power and Zimbabwe’s reforms as a means to prolong ruling party dominance.
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Emmerson Mnangagwa - President of Zimbabwe
Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa is a Zimbabwean politician who has served as the third President of Zimbabwe since 24 November 2017.
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Paul Biya - President of Cameroon
Paul Biya is a Cameroonian politician serving as the president of Cameroon since 6 November 1982. He is the second-longest-ruling president in Africa, the longest-ruling non-royal leader in the world, and the oldest head-of-state in Africa.
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Cameroon - Country in Central Africa
Cameroon, officially the Republic of Cameroon, is a country in Central Africa. It is bordered by Nigeria to the west and north; Chad to the northeast; the Central African Republic to the east; and Equatorial Guinea, Gabon and the Republic of the Congo to