Cameroon military reshuffle: President Biya maintains control despite absence
President Paul Biya of Cameroon has recently authorized a significant military restructuring while remaining outside the country for over two months. Several decrees bearing his signature were released, formalizing sweeping changes across the armed forces. The measures include the appointment of five new brigadier generals, a new army chief of staff, and the reassignment of multiple territorial commanders and strategic units, including the Presidential Guard.
A key highlight is the promotion of Raymond Jean Charles Beko’o Abondo to brigadier general, while retaining his leadership of the Presidential Guard—a position he has held for thirteen years. Security analysts note this marks the first time in the elite unit’s history, established in 1985, that its commander holds this rank—a move seen as a clear signal of renewed confidence from the head of state.
General Ebaka Hippolyte has been named the new army chief of staff, succeeding his predecessor who has entered the second section of active service. Six new territorial commanders have also been installed across four of the five inter-service military regions, including areas facing severe security challenges—from the Far North battling Boko Haram to the anglophone regions of the Southwest.
Beyond their military significance, these appointments carry clear political implications. They aim to reinforce the command structure and underscore that President Biya continues to exercise full authority despite his prolonged absence. The opposition, particularly Maurice Kamto’s MRC, views these moves as inadequate responses to concerns about the actual exercise of power, reiterating calls for greater transparency and the formation of the government announced by the president in December 2025.
