Insider reports suggest Cameroon’s political landscape is shifting as President Paul Biya’s inner circle evaluates potential successors. The latest revelation centers on Louis Paul Motaze, a cousin of Franck Biya, who has reportedly been quietly positioning himself for years.

According to political insiders, Motaze has been leveraging the changing tides among Cameroon’s southern elites, who have reportedly expressed reservations about Franck Biya’s candidacy. «The influence of southern elites in Cameroon’s public administration cannot be overstated», noted a political analyst familiar with the situation. Motaze’s background includes key roles such as Director General of the National Social Insurance Fund (CNPS), Minister of Economy, Planning and Territorial Development, Secretary General of the Presidency, and Minister of Finance.

Observers describe him as one of the most powerful figures in Cameroon after President Biya, with a vast network spanning government, media, and business sectors.

Strategic alliances and media control

«He exerts significant control over the media landscape—name a single outlet that openly criticizes him—and maintains strong ties to business leaders across Cameroon, particularly in the West region», explained a political commentator. «His relationship with traditional leaders in the West is particularly strategic. One of his key allies is Nayang Toukam Innocent, a charismatic figure who has organized major pan-African traditional leaders’ gatherings. Motaze met with him five years ago in Batoufam’s royal palace, accompanied by a delegation that included prominent businessman and Biopharma CEO. This traditional leader has positioned Batoufam as the 20th most popular eco-tourism destination worldwide, according to the International Social Tourism Organization».

Motaze’s strategic acumen is evident in his decision to distance himself from businessman Amougou Belinga following the Martinez Zogo assassination scandal. «Unlike some in his circle, he avoids tribalism in his dealings. His leadership since 2007, when he took charge of the Ministry of Economy, Planning and Regional Development (MINEPAT), speaks for itself. He now faces competition from his cousin Franck Biya, who is reportedly backed by First Lady Oswald Baboke, and Ferdinand Ngoh Ngoh, whose generosity is often overstated by Motaze’s supporters. Franck Biya, however, struggles to inspire Cameroon’s southern youth», concluded the analyst.