Senate (Cameroon)

The Senate is the upper house of the Parliament of Cameroon. Established in 2013, it is part of the bicameral legislature envisioned by the 1996 constitution. Prior to its creation, Cameroon had a unicameral system.

The Senate consists of 100 senators. Of these, 70 are indirectly elected by regional councillors from the ten regions of Cameroon. Each region elects seven senators through a system of proportional representation. The remaining 30 senators are appointed directly by the President of Cameroon. This presidential appointment allows for representation of specific groups and interests, as deemed necessary by the president.

Senators serve five-year terms. To be eligible for election or appointment to the Senate, individuals must be Cameroonian citizens and at least 40 years old.

The Senate's primary functions include debating and passing legislation, amending bills passed by the National Assembly (the lower house), and representing regional interests at the national level. While the National Assembly typically originates legislation, the Senate's review is a crucial step in the legislative process. In cases of disagreement between the two chambers, a joint committee is formed to attempt to reconcile the differing versions of the bill. If the committee fails to reach an agreement, the President has the power to make a final decision.

The President of the Senate is the presiding officer of the chamber and is constitutionally designated as the successor to the President of Cameroon in the event of a vacancy in the presidency.