AN ASSESSMENT ON THE FACTORS INFLUENCING THE CHOICE OF AN ELECTORAL CANDIDATE BY A POLITICAL PARTY IN CAMEROON

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

Background of the study

Primary elections are internal party processes that choose a political party’s candidate(s) for the next general election by holding an internal election. Exactly how this is done depends on the legal framework, internal party rules, and informal practices. Primary elections are an example of a selection process with a high level of participation, meaning that ordinary members (or in some cases all voters in the electoral district) control the process. Candidate selection methods are only one aspect in the more comprehensive analysis of candidate recruitment. As Norris (2018) points out in her study of legislative recruitment, a broad range of selection actors and processes outside the party arena should be addressed when one answers questions regarding who becomes a candidate, and how and why this happens. This study is not about candidate recruitment in general, but rather about a particular and important aspect of it inside the party arena. While the broader context of selection is certainly important, parties are critical to the process.

Contextually, elections in Cameroon cannot be thought of without political parties as there is no provision for independent candidacy in the country's constitution. Political parties remain the only platform for democratically elected leaders to emerge. The idea of political party’s candidate selection process enjoys unrivalled eminence in political discourses and analyses. However, party primaries and conventions are mere platforms of voice affirmation of elite’s consensus, which most times renders candidate selection process less credible. The process through which candidates emerge is often fraught with controversies, which often lead to violence and litigation. In fact, a greater percentage of those that emerge from party primaries are products of imposition, consensus and compromise (Egwu, 2014: 193). Emerging through consensus is not an aberration neither is it undemocratic but it becomes a problem when it is orchestrated by the party's godfathers who see themselves as the owners of the party.

Undoubtedly, the selection of candidates by political parties not only influences the makeup of elected politicians, but also reveals larger patterns within the political system, such as power dynamics, ideological factors, and cultural norms (Tsepu, 2017). The candidate's personality and charisma are crucial factors to consider while picking a candidate for an election. Whether due to lack of knowledge or just human nature, the physical appearance of some candidates has often been a major factor for voters when choosing individuals for leadership roles. Similarly, the way in which politicians express their political beliefs leads some voters to directly endorse their candidacy, unlike other candidates who may be highly educated but lack the personal qualities and charm to persuade voters of their abilities. This makes it challenging to support such a candidate for an election, as it is already a sign of impending failure.

According to Maimo (2020), the applicant's financial viability is a crucial factor in the candidate selection process. This is due to several scenarios in which the candidate running for election is required to use their own personal resources for the benefit of the political party they are affiliated with. If there are two candidates who are equally qualified for an election, but one of them has better financial resources, that candidate will be chosen because they are more likely to provide financial support to the party for administrative and logistical expenses. This is based on the judgment of the voters and the party. A candidate who is financially weak would not be able to handle these expenses effectively. 

1.2 Statement of the problem

The process of picking election candidates by political parties in Cameroon plays a crucial role in the country's democratic development. Nevertheless, this crucial element of the voting procedure is veiled in obscurity and susceptible to several internal and external forces, prompting apprehension over its impartiality, openness, and inclusiveness. As observed by Francis (2019), Cameroon's dedication to democratic principles and regular elections is hindered by a lack of comprehensive knowledge about the complexities of candidate selection. This poses significant obstacles to the establishment of democratic governance and the advancement of political pluralism in the country.

Lenkong (2018) assert that the difficulty stems from a lack of understanding on the criteria, procedures, and dynamics that political parties use to choose their candidates for different elected seats. This lack of transparency not only contradicts the concepts of being responsible and open, but also continues the belief that some individuals are being favored, that family connections are being used to gain advantages, and that those in power are only serving the interests of a privileged few inside the political realm. Furthermore, the lack of comprehensive understanding regarding the factors that affect the selection of candidates hinders the active involvement of marginalized groups, such as women, youth, ethnic minorities, and marginalized regions, in the political process. This, in turn, worsens existing inequalities and obstructs endeavors to promote inclusive political representation (Adboulaye, 2018). 

Moreover, the insufficient exploration of the impact of external elements, such as financial interests, international players, and geopolitical concerns, on the selection of candidates is evident. This prompts inquiries on the degree to which internal political procedures are vulnerable to outside influence, which might undermine national independence and the self-governance of decision-making procedures. Furthermore, it is important to closely analyze the influence of internal party dynamics, such as power struggles, factionalism, and patronage networks, on the process of selecting candidates. This will help us better understand the intricate relationship between intra-party dynamics and the larger ideals of democracy (Aloys, 2018). Furthermore, the candidate selection process in Cameroon is made more complicated by the country's varied sociocultural terrain, which is marked by variety in language, ethnicity, region, and religion. The high occurrence of identity-based politics and the politicization of ethnic affinities highlights the need of comprehending how these elements impact the selection of candidates and their consequences for social harmony, political steadiness, and national solidarity. Neglecting to deal with these processes not only increases the likelihood of worsening current tensions, but also weakens attempts to construct a unified and inclusive political society founded on common values and goals (Ali, 2019). Given these issues, there is a pressing need for comprehensive research that methodically investigates the variables that impact the selection of electoral candidates by political parties in Cameroon. Hence, the study assesses the factors influencing the choice of an electoral candidate by a political party in Cameroon.

1.3 Objectives of the study

The broad objective of the study is to assess the factors influencing the choice of an electoral  candidate by a political party in Cameroon. The specific objectives is as follows

To identify the political factors that influence the selection of electoral candidates by political parties in Cameroon.

To analyze the role of party ideology in shaping candidate selection processes within political parties in Cameroon.

To assess whether regional considerations influences the choice of electoral candidates by political parties in Cameroon.

To find out if party’s choice of candidate determines their chances  to win a general election

 1.4 Research Questions

The following questions have been prepared for the following

What is the  political factors that influence the selection of electoral candidates by political parties in Cameroon?

What is the role of party ideology in shaping candidate selection processes within political parties in Cameroon?

Does  regional considerations influences the choice of electoral candidates by political parties in Cameroon?

Does party’s choice of candidate determines their chances to win a general election?

1.5 Research Hypotheses

Ho: There are no significant political factors that influence the selection of electoral candidates by political parties in Cameroon.

Ha: There are no significant political factors that influence the selection of electoral candidates by political parties in Cameroon?

1.6 Significance of the Study

The findings of the study will be significant will help party constitutions to be reviewed to provide for a broader democratic space for the underrepresented groups, particularly the youth and the physically challenged. Political Parties will by the study’s result endeavour to mass produce and distribute their constitutions and manifestos, and educate their members across all levels with a view to promoting the culture of party supremacy, especially as it relates to internal party democracy, inclusiveness, enforcement and appeal

Empirically, the study adds to the body of academic literature on comparative politics, democratization, and African political systems. It provides a case study of candidate selection practices within the specific context of Cameroon, contributing to broader scholarly debates and enriching academic understanding.

1.6 Scope of the Study

The study focuses on contributions to the political system of Cameroon. Empirically, the study will identify the political factors that influence the selection of electoral candidates by political parties in Cameroon, analyze the role of party ideology in shaping candidate selection processes within political parties in Cameroon and assess whether regional considerations influences the choice of electoral candidates by political parties 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 Candidate: An individual who seeks nomination by a political party or runs independently for public office in an election. Electoral candidates typically campaign to represent a constituency or jurisdiction in a legislative body or government position.

Political Party: An organized group of individuals who share common political goals and ideologies, seeking to influence public policy by gaining power through elections. Political parties nominate candidates for public office, develop and promote policy platforms, and engage in political campaigning.

Candidate Selection: The process by which a political party chooses individuals to represent it in elections as candidates for various offices. This process may involve internal party mechanisms, such as nominations by party leaders, primaries, or conventions, and can be influenced by a variety of factors.