Fake Decree in Cameroon: Behind the Scenes of the Baboke Affair

A fake decree purporting to appoint a vice president in Cameroon nearly aired on state broadcaster CRTV on June 12. The investigation points to the inner circle of President Paul Biya and the deputy director of the civil cabinet, Oswald Baboke, who denounces the incident as a plot. The affair highlights internal power struggles and potential succession maneuvering within the Biya administration. No official appointment has been made, and the decree was stopped before broadcast. The incident raises questions about institutional stability and information security in the country.

Global Impact

Politically, the affair underscores fragility in Cameroon's succession planning, potentially destabilizing the region if it leads to a contested transition. Economically, prolonged uncertainty could deter foreign direct investment and slow infrastructure projects.