A CRITICAL INVESTIGATION ON CHALLENGES AND PROSPECT OF  ELECTORAL PROCESS IN CAMEROON

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

Background of the study

In Africa's faltering transitional democratic landscape, elections are often a defining moment, a critical turning point with clear ramifications as to whether there will be greater or lesser opportunities for all political actors. The incentive to all political actors to behave in a manner that enhances democracy and legality depends very much on the legitimacy and acceptability of electoral outcomes. Arolowo and Aluko (2022) assert that election is "a process by which the people pick their leaders and signal their choice for policies and program and as a consequence invest a government with the ability to rule. It is the process by which eligible adult voters elect their politically favored representatives to parliament legislature of a county (or any other public offices) for the goal of forming and governing the government of the country. 

According to Momodu and Gambo (2018), the trust in this mechanism is based on the fact that it enables the people to determine who and who should wield political power in relation to their various interests. This is accomplished by providing the ballot as an outlet for the expression of voter preference based on the voter's assessment of the candidates' integrity and the reliability of each candidate's party manifesto. The credibility of the electoral process has not only become an instrument for the end of authoritarianism or a transition to democracy, but it has also become an instrument for determining the integrity and legitimacy of a democratic regime. According to Acha-Morfaw (2018), a credible election is one in which both the local populace and the foreign world see the way it was carried out as being free and fair. 

Evidently, Cameroon, a diverse and multi-ethnic nation in Central Africa, has undergone significant political transitions since gaining independence in 1960. The country's electoral processes play a crucial role in shaping its democratic landscape, reflecting the aspirations of its people. However, these processes have not been without challenges, raising concerns about the fairness, transparency, and inclusivity of the electoral system.The issue of democratization has been centered on the difficulties presented by electoral misconduct. Aside from the longer years of colonial domination and post-independence military expedition that ended with the fourth republic, elections in the country have been plagued by spiraling malpractices in the electoral process as confirmed by domestic and external election monitoring bodies during the elections of the fourth republic.one of the vital requirements of which is the integrity of the administration of the elections. 

Unarguably, the significance of EMBs today has to be appreciated in the light of the numerous challenges posed by the fragility and stunted character of the electoral processes inherited at independence and how these have continued to be manipulated in spite of the re-introduction of multiparty democracy.   Ewang (2020) recorded that since the re-introduction of multi-party politics in Cameroon in 1990, several presidential, parliamentary and municipal elections have been held. The post-independence era saw a consolidation of power under President Ahmadou Ahidjo, followed by a peaceful transfer of power to President Paul Biya in 1982. Despite this semblance of political stability, there have been persistent challenges in ensuring truly democratic elections. The outcome of all these elections have been hotly contested with most stake holders labeling them as seriously flawed and failing to reflect the will of the people. 

In same vein, Acha-Morfaw (2018) averred that renowned international bodies involved in election observation such as the Commonwealth, the National Democratic Institute for International Affairs and the International Foundation for Election Systems have observed elections in Cameroon and their reports have all been dismissive of the process as a façade. This state of affairs has largely been blamed on the lack of a credible and independent elections management body, given the fact that elections in Cameroon have hitherto been managed by institutions that are not trusted by most stakeholders. Instances of political violence and intimidation during elections have been reported, creating an atmosphere of fear and negatively impacting voter turnout. Addressing the root causes of such violence is crucial to ensuring a secure and free electoral environment.

Statement of the problem

 The significance of democratic consolidation in Cameroon like in other new democracies depends largely on the conduct of free, fair and credible election. However, in recent times, the electoral process in Cameroon has been marred by frequent allegations of irregularities, including voter fraud, ballot stuffing, and inadequate transparency in the counting process. These challenges undermine the credibility of elections and erode public trust in the democratic system.  

Kerr, (2021) observed that barriers such as voter registration challenges, inadequate civic education, and limited accessibility to polling stations contribute to voter disenfranchisement. This not only undermines the inclusivity of the electoral process but also raises concerns about the representation of diverse voices in the political landscape. According Ismailaa& Zaheruddin (2020),Cameroon's electoral process stands at a critical juncture, facing a myriad of challenges that demand thorough investigation to promote transparency, fairness, and the consolidation of democratic practices. By addressing these challenges, this research aims to provide insights into the complexities of Cameroon's electoral process and identify prospects for reforms that could enhance the fairness, transparency, and effectiveness of future elections in the country. Against this backdrop, this study seeks to delve into the complexities of the electoral landscape in Cameroon and the prospect.

1.3 Objective of the study

The aim of this study is focused on critical investigation on challenges and prospect of  electoral process in Cameroon. Specifically, the study seeks to:

To assess the extent  of electoral irregularities in Cameroon electoral process

To assess the nature of of electoral irregularities in Cameroon electoral process

To investigate the root causes to voter enfranchisement in Cameroon electoral process.

To determine the implications of electoral challenges on  the integrity of the electoral process.

1.4 Research Questions

What is the extent  of electoral irregularities in Cameroon electoral process?

What is the nature of of electoral irregularities in Cameroon electoral process?

What are the root causes to voter enfranchisement in Cameroon electoral process?

What are the implications of electoral challenges on  the integrity of the electoral process?

1.5 Research Hypothesis

Ho: There are no significant challenges affecting the electoral process of Cameroon. 

Hi: There is a significant challenges affecting the electoral process of Cameroon. 

1.6 Significance of the study

A comprehensive study on the challenges and prospects of the electoral process in Cameroon will provide policymakers with evidence-based insights. This knowledge is crucial for formulating and implementing targeted electoral reforms that address specific issues, ultimately contributing to the improvement of the democratic system. Furthermore, Understanding the challenges surrounding electoral irregularities and lack of transparency is essential for fostering a more transparent electoral process. By identifying weaknesses in the current system, the study can guide initiatives aimed at improving transparency, instilling public confidence in the fairness of elections. Empirically, the study will serve as a reference material for scholar who wishes to conduct further studies in related topic.

1.7 Scope of the study

The scope of this study borders on a critical investigation on challenges and prospect of  electoral process in Cameroon. Empirically the study discussed  the extent  and nature of electoral irregularities in Cameroon electoral process. Geographically the study is delimited to Southern Cameroon.

1.8 Limitation of the study

The electoral landscape in Cameroon is dynamic, and the study may face time constraints in keeping up with the rapidly evolving political environment. This limitation could impact the study's ability to capture real-time developments and may require reliance on historical data. More so, the cooperation of key stakeholders, such as political parties, election officials, and government authorities, is crucial for obtaining comprehensive insights. However, there may be challenges in securing their full cooperation, leading to gaps in the understanding of specific aspects of the electoral process. Additionally, the study's accuracy and comprehensiveness may be constrained by the availability and reliability of data. Limited access to official election records, reports, or data from certain regions may hinder the depth of the analysis and the ability to draw well-informed conclusions. Thus the findings of this study may not be used for generalization.

1.9 Definition of terms

Election: An election is a formal group decision-making process by which a population chooses an individual or multiple individuals to hold public office. 

Electoral Process: The electoral process refers to the series of steps and activities that occur during the conduct of an election, from the announcement of the election to the declaration of results. It is a fundamental aspect of democratic governance, allowing citizens to participate in the selection of their representatives and leaders.