Every weekday at 5pm, Elvis Mbi switches on his radio and waits. He is hoping for news of a Cameroon government reshuffle, and so far he keeps getting disappointed. The 39-year-old is one of millions watching for a sign after the Paul Biya return in August.
A Country Glued to the Radio
Biya, 93, came home on 20 August after about ten weeks abroad. His absence fed rumours about his health, including false claims that he had died. People expected cabinet changes on his arrival. By 6 October, nothing had come. Back on 31 December 2025, Biya said a new government would be formed “in the coming days.” More than nine months on, Cameroonians are still waiting, which is why the state radio evening bulletin has become must-listen.
The Empty Vice President’s Chair
The bigger question is the vice presidency. A constitutional amendment signed on 14 April brought the post back after five decades. If the president dies, resigns or is permanently unable to serve, the vice president takes over temporarily. But the law sets no deadline, and the job is still vacant.
That gap has fed odd stories. In June, someone delivered a sealed envelope to state broadcaster CRTV containing what looked like a decree naming a vice president. The government said it was not issued properly, and the person was detained. Opposition figure Cabral Libii argues that naming a deputy would help calm the succession fight he says is paralysing the country.
What the Waiting Costs
Analysts say the uncertainty has a price. Jason Healy of BMI, part of Fitch Solutions, warned that investors may hold back from big, long-term projects. Others fear slower decisions and delayed reforms, at a time when Cameroon faces a separatist conflict in its English-speaking regions and a Boko Haram-linked rebellion near Lake Chad.
The government insists there is no problem. Communication Minister Rene Emmanuel Sadi says the president decides when to act and can take his time choosing. Ruling-party figures say the same.
For ordinary people, that answer rings hollow. These Cameroon political developments touch jobs, services and security. Until the cabinet changes arrive, Mbi will keep listening.
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