AN ASSESSMENT ON THE INFLUENCE OF TRADITIONAL INSTITUTIONS ON CAMEROON'S POLITICAL GOVERNANCE

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

Background of the study

African nations exhibit a state of fragmentation in several facets of their political economy, including their governing structures. The bulk of rural communities in most African nations mostly adhere to traditional institutions. The post-colonial State, however, mostly replicates Western systems of government, which often clash with traditional African cultural values and the current socio-economic conditions of the area. The disintegration of governance institutions, along with economic and social disintegration, has played a role in Africa's challenges in establishing strong states, effective governance, and economic progress. Although there has been little improvement in certain nations, the post-colonial State has been unsuccessful in creating political and economic systems of governance that are based on rights. These systems would help strengthen the process of developing a stable state and encourage economic growth. Primarily, this may be attributed to its disconnection from the institutional and cultural principles of its supporters. The continent is characterised by a prevalent condition of poverty, persistent ethnic and civil disputes, and recurrent election and post-electoral turmoil, all of which are clear indications of the condition's failure (Kenneth and Toyin, 2018). The continued existence of traditional institutions as an alternative form of government, offering a degree of sanctuary for the rural populace who often feel marginalised by the State, further demonstrates the inadequacy of the post-colonial State.

However, African traditional institutions are similarly ill-prepared to appropriately address the State's shortcomings. These institutions not only have to deal with local challenges, but they also have specific constraints, particularly in terms of accountability and gender equality. Additionally, a significant number of individuals are hindered by their lack of capacity to clearly establish and protect property rights, resulting in increased expenses associated with allocating resources to their constituents. Furthermore, the current period of globalisation is characterised by an increasing economic variety and intricate division of work, which conventional institutions are mostly unable to address. Thus, these institutions are unlikely to effectively address poverty reduction among their constituents without the guidance and support of the government (Linnea, 2018).

Cameroon, situated in Central Africa, is renowned for its rich cultural legacy and varied traditional establishments. These conventional establishments have traditionally had a substantial impact in moulding the socio-political environment of the country. Cameroon offers a distinctive opportunity to investigate the interaction between traditional institutions and contemporary political government, given its diverse array of over 250 ethnic groups, each with their own unique cultural practices and traditional governing systems. The conventional establishments of Cameroon, including chieftaincies, village councils, customary laws, and tribal councils, have always played a crucial role in the structure of Cameroonian society. They have functioned as means for resolving conflicts, fostering social unity, and safeguarding cultural heritage within local communities. Nevertheless, as Cameroon shifted from colonial domination to independence and later implemented a democratic style of administration, the influence of these ancient institutions in the political realm has transformed and sometimes faced challenges. Comprehending the impact of traditional institutions on the political government of Cameroon is of utmost importance for several reasons (Sami, Jusoh, Nor, Irfan & Qureshi, 2018). Firstly, it elucidates the dynamics of power and authority inside the nation, demonstrating the interaction of traditional leaders and structures with the formal institutions of the state. Furthermore, it offers valuable perspectives on the difficulties and possibilities that arise from the simultaneous presence of conventional and contemporary systems of governance, namely in domains such as law enforcement, resource management, and decision-making procedures. Additionally, it provides useful insights for policymakers and stakeholders that want to promote inclusive and participatory government that acknowledges the cultural variety of Cameroon (Wooi & Ismail, 2017). Prior research on this subject has emphasised different facets of the correlation between conventional establishments and political administration in Cameroon. Scholars have directed their attention on the significance of traditional leaders in local governance and efforts for progress, while others have analysed the conflicts that arise due to conflicting sources of power and credibility (Songwe, 2021). Nevertheless, there is still a need for extensive study that methodically examines the processes by which conventional institutions impact political decision-making, policy execution, and public involvement at both the local and national levels. This research seeks to enhance the current understanding of governance in Cameroon and provide practical insights for policymakers, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders. The objective is to reveal the fundamental forces that influence the connection between conventional establishments and political administration in Cameroon. Therefore, the researcher sought to assess the influence of traditional institutions on Cameroon's political governance. 

1.2 Statement of the problem

Cameroon, similar to several other African countries, demonstrates an intricate political terrain distinguished by the simultaneous presence of contemporary democratic frameworks and customary establishments. The convergence of these conventional systems and modern governance mechanisms prompts crucial inquiries about their impact on the nation's political terrain. Although attempts have been made to develop democratic governance frameworks, conventional institutions continue to have significant influence, moulding political choices, policies, and power dynamics. Nevertheless, the magnitude and characteristics of their influence are still inadequately understood (Enor & Frank, 2015).

The issue at hand pertains to comprehending the complex interplay between conventional establishments and political administration in Cameroon. Firstly, there is a dearth of extensive research that investigates the precise methods by which traditional institutions exercise influence in the political domain. The lack of understanding in this area hinders policymakers from developing effective policies that can accommodate both traditional and contemporary governance systems. This might possibly result in conflicts and inefficiencies within the political system (Hales & Kevin, 2015).

Furthermore, the extent to which traditional institutions really support or impede democratic norms, such as accountability, openness, and inclusion, despite their claims of representing grassroots concerns and cultural values, remains uncertain. It is essential to analyse this uncertainty in order to evaluate the compatibility between conventional and democratic governance models and to find possible areas of cooperation or disagreement.

Furthermore, the ever-changing character of traditional institutions in reaction to socio-political developments adds intricacies to comprehending their developing position within Cameroon's political environment. The process of urbanisation, globalisation, and demographic changes have the potential to transform established power hierarchies and impact their relationship with formal systems of government. Hence, it is important to examine the impact of these changes on the authority and credibility of conventional institutions, as well as their capacity to facilitate or hinder political stability and progress (Kah & Kam, 2015).

Furthermore, the current body of scholarship mostly concentrates on either conventional establishments or contemporary systems of administration separately, disregarding the complex interaction between the two. The fragmented approach impedes a comprehensive comprehension of Cameroon's political governance structure. Hence, there is a need for interdisciplinary study that may connect the domains of political science, anthropology, sociology, and other related disciplines in order to clarify the intricate interactions between traditional and contemporary institutions. This research aims to investigate the impact of traditional institutions on the political governance of Cameroon, in order to fill the existing gaps in information. This research seeks to analyse the mechanisms, challenges, and opportunities related to the interaction between traditional and modern governance systems. Its objective is to offer insights that can guide policy interventions, facilitate intercultural dialogue, and enhance the inclusivity and effectiveness of political governance in Cameroon.

1.3 Objective of the study

The broad objective of the study is to assess the influence of traditional institutions on Cameroon's political governance. The specific objectives is as follows;

To examine the role of traditional institutions in shaping Cameroon's political governance.

To analyze the relationship between traditional institutions and formal governmental structures in Cameroon's political decision-making processes.

To assess the impact of traditional institutions on political governance in Cameroon.

1.4 Research questions

The following questions have been prepared to further guide the study;

What is  the role of traditional institutions in shaping Cameroon's political governance?

What is the relationship between traditional institutions and formal governmental structures in Cameroon's political decision-making processes?

What is the impact of traditional institutions on political governance in Cameroon?

1.5 Significance of the study

 The findings of this research endeavor to inform more inclusive and effective approaches to governance that harness the strengths of both traditional and modern systems for the benefit of all Cameroonians.

The findings of  the study will be significant to the academic community as it will contribute to the existing literature on the subject matter .

1.6 Scope of the study

The study focuses on the influence of traditional institutions on Cameroon's political governance. Empirically, the study will examine the role of traditional institutions in shaping Cameroon's political governance, analyze the relationship between traditional institutions and formal governmental structures in Cameroon's political decision-making processes and assess the impact of traditional institutions on political governance 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

Traditional institution: built upon or based on history, ancestry, culture, custom, religion and values of the people

Politics: the activities associated with the governance of a country or area, especially the debate between parties having power

Governance: the act or process of governing or overseeing the control and direction of something.