Cameroon has approved the establishment of a vice president position, marking a significant change in the country's governance structure under President Paul Biya's long tenure.

Biya, who is 93 years old, has served as Cameroon's president for 43 years, making him one of the world's longest-serving leaders. The creation of the vice president role represents the first time such a position will exist during his rule.

The approval comes after Biya won his eighth consecutive presidential term in the most recent election, though the results faced challenges from opposition groups. Biya first assumed power in 1982 and has maintained control of the Central African nation through multiple election cycles.

The new vice presidential position could provide greater administrative support and potentially address questions about succession planning, given Biya's advanced age. However, specific details about the role's responsibilities and powers have not been disclosed.

Cameroon, with a population of approximately 27 million people, has experienced various challenges during Biya's tenure, including security issues in its northern regions and an ongoing separatist conflict in English-speaking areas of the country.