AN ASSESSENT ON THE CAUSES OF POLITICAL CORRUPTION AND ITS EFFECT IN THE CAMEROONIAN GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

Background of the study

Corruption is widely prevalent since it permeates several sectors of the nation, including both official and informal sub-sectors, as well as governmental and private activities. Endemic corruption refers to corruption that is mostly caused by organizational deficiencies. In many instances, corruption is the prevailing standard rather than an exception. Systemic corruption, often referred to as institutionalized corruption, refers to a scenario in which corruption is deeply ingrained throughout a country's economic, social, and political framework. In such a system, the majority of individuals have no viable options other than engaging with corrupt authorities (Adegbola & Gearhart, 2019). This tendency is pervasive throughout several branches of government and has completely infiltrated the social fabric, becoming systematic and ingrained in the culture of the people. 

Political corruption manifests itself in two ways: acts related to election and succession, and manipulation of individuals and institutions in order to keep power and office. Political positions and resources are limited, and the rewards for holding office are substantial. As a result, the fight for such resource positions encompasses all extralegal means—including corruption—to overcome hurdles and objections. The 2007 election in Nigeria, which was marred by malpractice and irregularities, and was later declared null and void by several authorities in the nation, exemplifies Nigeria's political corruption. Political corruption is at the core of other types of corrupt behaviours. It involves the acquisition of power and the exploitation of the people's resources by a select few, to the detriment of others. Political corruption, as defined by the World Bank, refers to the improper or unethical use of public office for personal and private benefits (Agbiboa, 2015). 

Evidently, the roots causes of political corruption in  are complex and nuanced, frequently arising from a mix of historical legacies, poor institutional frameworks, insufficient transparency measures, widespread patronage networks, and socio-economic inequality. In addition, the presence of inefficient regulatory procedures, inadequate accountability mechanisms, and a culture of impunity has worsened the extent of corrupt activities inside the government and political sphere of Cameroon (Ajiboye, 2016). The ramifications of political corruption in Cameroon have extensive and significant impacts, negatively influencing the efficacy of government, the delivery of public services, economic development, social fairness, and the people's faith in institutions. In addition, corruption affects the legal system, weakens democratic values, and maintains socioeconomic inequality, thereby impeding the country's overall progress. 

Considering the crucial significance of tackling political corruption in Cameroon, it is essential to carry out a thorough evaluation of its origins and consequences (Akanji, 2018). To effectively combat corruption and promote transparency, accountability, and integrity within the Cameroonian government, policymakers, civil society actors, and other stakeholders need to gain a thorough understanding of the root causes of corruption and its effects on governance and politics. By doing so, they can develop strategies and policy interventions based on solid evidence. Therefore, the researcher sought to assess the causes of political corruption and it’s effect in the Cameroonian government and politics.

Statement of the problem

Political corruption is a significant issue on a worldwide scale, but in Cameroon, it has reached epidemic levels and manifests in numerous ways. These include many forms of corruption, such as the bribing of government officials, prebendalism, embezzlement, money-laundering, extortion, nepotism, cronyism, and election malpractices (Komolafe v. FRN, 2018). Corrupt practices can be categorised into two main types. The first type involves financial crimes committed by individuals in positions of high authority, as discussed by Akran (2017). The second type is political corruption, which encompasses electoral malpractices committed by politically exposed persons who hold or have the ability to influence political power, as explained by Heidenheimer and Johnston (2002). Therefore, this research will attempt to assess the causes of political corruption and it’s effect in the Cameroonian government and politics.

1.3 Objective of the study

The broad objective of the study is to assess the causes of political corruption and it’s effect in the Cameroonian government and politics. The specific objectives is as follows

Assess the extent of political corruption in Cameroon.

Identify the causes of political corruption in the Cameroonian government 

Evaluate the impacts of political corruption on governance effectiveness in Cameroon.

Proffer strategies aimed at mitigating political corruption in Cameroon.

1.4 Research Questions

The following questions have been prepared for the study

What is the extent at which political corruption manifest in Cameroon?

What are the causes of political corruption in the Cameroonian government?

What is the impacts of political corruption on governance effectiveness in Cameroon?

What are the strategies aimed at mitigating political corruption in Cameroon?

1.5 Research Hypotheses

Ho: There is no significant effect of political corruption on governance effectiveness and politics in Cameroon.

Ha: There is a significant effect of political corruption on governance effectiveness and politics in Cameroon.

 1.6 Significance of the study

This study will be of importance to anti-corruption agencies that have been established in the country. This study, through the findings made, will provide options through which investigations and processes used in pursuing justice against political corruption can be handled. Taking into cognizance expert and insider views and opinions provided in the course of the study, recommendations made will further enhance the quality of investigations, while in the long term suggestions made will mitigate practices that are encouraged through political corruption in the Nigerian polity.

1.7 Scope of the study

The study focuses on the causes of political corruption and it’s effect in the Cameroonian government and politics. Empirically, the study will assess the extent of political corruption in Cameroon, identify the causes of political corruption in the Cameroonian government, evaluate the impacts of political corruption on governance effectiveness in Cameroon and Proffer strategies aimed at mitigating political corruption in Cameroon.

1.8 Limitation of the study

Like in every human endeavor, 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

Political Corruption: Political corruption refers to the abuse of public power, resources, or positions for personal gain or to maintain power, often through illicit means such as bribery, embezzlement, nepotism, and favoritism.

Governance: Governance encompasses the processes and structures through which public policies are formulated, implemented, and monitored.