AN ASSESSMENT OF STRATEGIC TECHNIQUES REQUIRED FOR THE ELIMINATION OF ELECTORAL VIOLENCE IN CAMEROON

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

Background of the study

The occurrence of electoral violence presents a substantial danger to the principles of democracy, stability, and social unity in several nations, including Cameroon. Given the nation's history of electoral violence and the tensions surrounding political processes, it is imperative to understand and tackle the underlying factors that contribute to such violence in order to advance democracy. According to Besong (2018), the objective of this research is to evaluate the strategic methodologies necessary for the eradication of electoral violence in Cameroon. This study aims to contribute to the development of effective measures to prevent election violence and promote peaceful democratic processes in Cameroon by reviewing prior instances, analysing current socio-political dynamics, and investigating viable interventions. 

Since achieving independence in 1960, Cameroon has had intermittent instances of election violence (Fomunyam, 2017). Tensions during election cycles have often been exacerbated by the competitive character of the political environment, as well as the presence of ethnic and regional differences. Occurrences of violence, including acts of intimidation, harassment, and physical altercations, have tarnished many election procedures, eroding their legitimacy and leading to casualties and destruction of property. An examination of these occurrences from a historical perspective offers crucial understanding of the elements that contribute to election violence in Cameroon (Mbaku, 2019). In order to develop successful tactics, it is crucial to comprehend the socio-political variables that lead to electoral violence. The presence of several ethnic and linguistic groups in Cameroon, together with differences in socio-economic progress and political representation, leads to a conducive environment for electoral conflicts. The exacerbation of tensions, resulting to violence before, during, and after elections, is attributed to several issues including marginalisation, corruption, and rivalry for power (Ngongang, 2020). Furthermore, it is crucial to acknowledge the significant influence exerted by political parties, media outlets, and other entities in forming public opinion and intensifying societal differences. Numerous measures have been undertaken to tackle election violence in Cameroon, including law revisions, civic education campaigns, and endeavours aimed at fostering peace. Nevertheless, its efficacy has been constrained by a multitude of obstacles, including insufficient resources, absence of political determination, and systemic problems such as corruption and impunity. The assessment of the merits and limitations of these treatments yields significant observations on the deficiencies that need attention in the formulation of more resilient techniques (Ojong, 2015). 

To summarise, election violence continues to pose a substantial obstacle in Cameroon, jeopardising the nation's democratic stability and social unity. This research seeks to contribute to the creation of successful methods for eliminating it by rigorously evaluating the historical backdrop, socio-political dynamics, current interventions, and empirical data (Tadros, 2018). This study aims to provide valuable insights for policy and practice in Cameroon by using a complete framework of strategic tactics, based on empirical research and specifically designed for the Cameroonian environment. The ultimate goal is to enhance the promotion of peaceful and credible election processes in Cameroon. Therefore, the study  assess strategic techniques required for the elimination of electoral violence in Cameroon.

1.2 Statement of the problem

The occurrence of electoral violence in Cameroon presents a substantial danger to the principles of democracy, stability, and socio-political progress. Despite ongoing endeavours to enhance electoral procedures, occurrences of violence, intimidation, and fraudulent activities persistently tarnish the integrity of elections, so eroding their credibility and compromising the democratic ambitions of the country. According to Tadros (2018), the repeated occurrence of electoral violence not only undermines the confidence of the general public in the electoral system, but also sustains patterns of conflict and instability, hindering advancements towards achieving peace and prosperity.  The need of tackling electoral violence is acknowledged by several stakeholders; nonetheless, there exists a significant knowledge vacuum about the strategic tactics required for its successful eradication. The fundamental reasons that contribute to election violence in Cameroon have been identified in previous studies as socio-economic inequality, ethnic tensions, and political rivalry (Fomunyam, 2017). Nevertheless, there is a dearth of a thorough examination of the precise tactics and measures necessary to address these obstacles and guarantee the smooth functioning of election procedures. Furthermore, it is essential to adopt customised strategies that effectively tackle the distinctive socio-political dynamics and historical legacies that influence the electoral environment in Cameroon, given the context-specific character of electoral violence in the nation (Tadadjeu, 2016). The attainment of durable solutions to address election violence is likely to be hindered in the absence of focused measures that are guided by empirical facts and local insights.

1.3 Objective of the study

The broad objective of the study is to assess strategic techniques required for the elimination of electoral violence in Cameroon. The specific objectives is as follows

Analyze the root causes of electoral violence in Cameroon.

Examine the impact of  electoral violence  on the electoral process in Cameroon.

Assess the challenges mitigating against effective elimination of electoral violence in Cameroon.

Propose strategic techniques for mitigating electoral violence in Cameroon

1.4 Research questions

The following questions have been prepared to further guide the study

What is the root causes of electoral violence in Cameroon?

What are the impact of  electoral violence  on the electoral process in Cameroon?

What are the challenges mitigating against effective elimination of electoral violence in Cameroon?

What are the proposed strategic techniques for mitigating electoral violence in Cameroon?

1.5 Significance of the study

The findings of the study is significant to the following

Policymakers: Research on the implications of electoral violence provides evidence-based insights that can inform policy formulation and implementation. It helps policymakers design targeted interventions to strengthen electoral institutions, enhance governance structures, and promote peaceful political transitions.

Human Rights and Security organizations: Electoral violence often leads to human rights abuses and threatens the safety and security of citizens. By examining the implications of such violence, policymakers and stakeholders can develop interventions to protect human rights, enhance security measures, and mitigate the risks associated with electoral processes.

1.6 Scope of the study

The study focuses on assessing the role of political mobilization on community development in cameroon. Empirically, the study will analyze the root causes of electoral violence in Cameroon, examine the impact of  electoral violence  on the electoral process in Cameroon, assess the challenges mitigating against effective elimination of electoral violence in Cameroon and propose strategic techniques for mitigating electoral violence in Cameroon.

1.7 Limitations 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.

1.8 Definition of terms

Electoral Violence: Electoral violence encompasses any violent acts, intimidation, coercion, or manipulation that occurs before, during, or after an electoral process. This includes violence directed at voters, candidates, political party members, election officials, or any other stakeholders involved in the electoral process.

Political Implications: Political implications refer to the effects of electoral violence on the political landscape of Cameroon. This includes impacts on democratic processes, governance structures, electoral legitimacy, political participation, and the overall stability of the government and institutions.

Social Implications: Social implications pertain to the societal effects of electoral violence in Cameroon. This includes impacts on social cohesion, trust in institutions, community relations, human rights, freedom of expression, and the well-being of citizens, especially marginalized or vulnerable groups.

Economic Implications: Economic implications involve the financial and economic consequences of electoral violence in Cameroon. This includes impacts on foreign investment, business confidence, economic development, employment, poverty levels, and the overall economic stability and growth of the country.

Psychological Implications: Psychological implications refer to the mental and emotional effects of electoral violence on individuals and communities in Cameroon. This includes trauma, fear, anxiety, distrust, and psychological distress experienced by victims, witnesses, and those affected directly or indirectly by electoral violence.