AN ANALYSIS ON THE CAUSES AND EFFECT OF POLITICS OF SECOND TERM IN CAMEROON

CHAPTER ONE:

INTRODUCTION

Background of the study

In nascent democracies, the politics surrounding second terms for elected leaders can be highly consequential and often fraught with challenges. As noted by Smith (2020), the prospect of a second term raises critical questions about the consolidation of democratic norms, governance continuity, and political stability. This period is marked by intensified political maneuvering, coalition building, and electoral strategies aimed at securing re-election or maintaining power. The politics of second terms in nascent democracies are influenced by a variety of factors. Firstly, incumbents seeking re-election often leverage their incumbency advantage, which includes access to state resources, patronage networks, and media visibility (Brown, 2019). This advantage can be particularly pronounced in contexts where institutional checks and balances are weak, leading to concerns about fairness and transparency in the electoral process. Secondly, opposition parties and civil society groups play a crucial role in shaping the dynamics of second term politics. As noted by Johnson (2018), opposition parties may mobilize against incumbents, highlighting grievances, corruption allegations, and policy failures in an attempt to sway public opinion and challenge the legitimacy of the ruling party. Civil society organizations may also advocate for electoral reforms, transparency measures, and accountability mechanisms to ensure free and fair elections. Thirdly, the politics of second terms are often influenced by external actors, including international organizations, donor countries, and regional blocs. These actors may exert pressure on incumbent governments to adhere to democratic principles, respect human rights, and ensure a level playing field for all political parties (Brown, 2019). However, their involvement can also be perceived as interference in domestic affairs, leading to tensions and backlash from nationalist or populist movements.

Throughout its history, the political landscape of Cameroon has been characterized by a concentration of power within the executive branch, which is often centered on the president (Awah, 2020). A important turning point in the political history of the nation occurred in the early 1990s when President Paul Biya led the country through the transition from the authoritarian leadership of President Ahmadou Ahidjo to multi-party democracy. Nevertheless, concerns have been expressed over democratic governance, election integrity, and the consolidation of democratic institutions as a result of Biya's protracted time in power, which has spanned many decades (Ngwa, 2019). The phenomena of second term politics in Cameroon has attracted a significant amount of interest both inside the country and abroad owing to the implications it has for the stability of government, the consolidation of democratic institutions, and the cohesiveness of the sociopolitical system. 

Second term elections, which are characterized by incumbents seeking reelection for a subsequent term, often serve as a litmus test for the democratic maturity and political durability of the nation. There are, however, a number of issues and controversies that are associated with these election procedures. These range from charges of electoral fraud and irregularities to worries over the consolidation of executive authority and democratic backsliding (Tchoumbou, 2021). The incumbency advantage that sitting presidents have, the involvement of political parties and electoral alliances, the effect of regional and ethnic dynamics, and the larger socio-economic backdrop are some of the key elements that affect politics in Cameroon during the second term of their terms in office. To add insult to injury, the convergence of domestic politics with international players, such as regional organisations and foreign powers, significantly complicates the political environment and impacts the results of elections (Tadadjeu, 2020). 

Although, the politics of second terms in nascent democracies are multifaceted and dynamic, involving complex interactions between incumbents, opposition forces, external actors, and socio-economic dynamics. While second terms offer opportunities for continuity and consolidation of democratic gains, they also pose risks of political polarization, instability, and erosion of democratic norms. Thus a multidisciplinary approach that incorporates ideas from political science, comparative politics, electoral studies, public administration, and African studies is required in order to comprehend the complexities of the politics that are taking place during the second term in Cameroon. 

1.2 Statement of the problem

The political climate surrounding the elections for the second term in Cameroon constitutes a crucial crossroads in the democratic development of the nation, despite the fact that it is characterized by a variety of complicated dynamics and obstacles. According to DeLancey and DeLancey (2019), the context of the problem regarding the politics of second terms in Cameroon is situated within the country's broader political landscape, characterized by a history of political transitions, electoral contestation, and governance challenges. According to Khan and Anyangwe (2018), Cameroon, a country in Central Africa, has experienced successive presidential terms marked by controversies, allegations of electoral fraud, and concerns about democratic governance. Incumbents seeking re-election often face accusations of using state resources and institutions to maintain power, while opposition parties and civil society organizations raise concerns about the fairness and transparency of the electoral process. 

Tchoumbou (2021) assert that the politics of second terms are further complicated by socio-economic factors such as economic performance, social inequalities, and demographic dynamics, which shape voter perceptions, political strategies, and electoral outcomes. In addition, the function that public views, attitudes, and responses play in relation to politics during the second term forms an important aspect that requires more examination. When it comes to election results, political mobilization, and the legitimacy of government systems, public opinion and involvement are the most influential factors. According to Fomunyam (2018), the intricate interaction that exists between public opinion, media discourse, social dynamics, and electoral behavior in the context of elections for a second term as president has not yet been well investigated.  Furthermore, the lack of comprehensive policy frameworks and electoral changes that are specifically designed to solve the issues connected with second term politics constitutes a substantial obstacle to the advancement of democratic principles in Cameroon. For the purpose of promoting democratic governance and limiting possible risks connected with second term bids, it is vital to strengthen systems for election integrity, transparency, and accountability (Khan & Anyangwe, 2018). 

Given these constraints, there is an immediate need for robust empirical research that investigates the origins and impacts of second term politics in Cameroon as understanding the root causes of political tensions and electoral contestation is essential for promoting democratic governance, political stability, and social cohesion in the country. By examining the factors driving political dynamics during second term elections, policymakers, electoral authorities, and civil society actors can develop strategies to address electoral irregularities, enhance transparency, and uphold democratic principles. Against this backdrop, the study seeks to analyze the causes and effect of  politics of second term in Cameroon.

1.3 Objective of the study

The broad objective of the study is to analyze the causes and effect of politics of second term in Cameroon. The specific objectives is as follows

Ascertain the prevalence of politics of second term in Cameroon

Identify the political factors influencing second term elections in Cameroon

Assess the impact of second term politics on governance stability in Cameroon

1.4 Research questions

The following questions have been prepared to further guide the study

What is the the prevalence of politics of second term in Cameroon?

What are the political factors influencing second term elections in Cameroon?

What is the impact of second term politics on governance stability in Cameroon?

1.5 Research Hypotheses

Ho: There is no significant cause and effect of politics of second term in on governance stability in Cameroon

1.6 Significance of the study

The findings of the study can serve as a valuable resource for policymakers, electoral management bodies, civil society organizations, and international stakeholders engaged in promoting democratic governance and electoral reform in Cameroon. By identifying key challenges and opportunities associated with second term elections, policymakers can formulate targeted policy interventions to address electoral irregularities, enhance political participation, and promote inclusive governance.

The study fills a significant gap in scholarly literature by providing empirical insights into the complexities of second term politics in Cameroon. By drawing upon interdisciplinary perspectives and robust methodological approaches, the study contributes to advancing academic scholarship in the fields of political science, comparative politics, African studies, and electoral studies, thereby enriching the theoretical understanding of democratic governance and political transitions in Africa.

1.7 Scope of the study

The study focuses on  the causes and effect of  politics of second term in cameroon. Empirically, the study will identify the political factors influencing second term elections in Cameroon, assess the impact of second term politics on governance stability in Cameroon, investigate how public sentiments influence voter behavior during second term elections and propose strategies for enhancing democratic processes and governance accountability in Cameroon.

1.8 Limitation of the study

Like in every human endeavour, the researchers encountered slight constraints while carrying out the study. Insufficient funds tend to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature, or information and in the process of data collection (internet, questionnaire, and interview), which is why the researcher resorted to a moderate choice of sample size. More so, the researcher will simultaneously engage in this study with other academic work. As a result, the amount of time spent on research will be reduced.

1.9 Definition of terms

Second Term Politics: Refers to the political processes, dynamics, and electoral contests associated with the reelection bids of incumbents seeking a consecutive term in office, particularly in the context of presidential or executive leadership in Cameroon.

Democratic Consolidation: The process by which democratic norms, institutions, and practices become deeply rooted and sustainable within a political system, encompassing elements such as free and fair elections, respect for human rights, rule of law, and accountable governance in Cameroon.

Political Stability: Signifies the absence of widespread political violence, civil unrest, or abrupt regime changes, indicating a state of equilibrium, continuity, and predictability in the political system of Cameroon.