AN EXAMINATION OF LEADERSHIP SKILLS AND THE PROBLEMS  OF POLITICAL DEVELOPMENT IN CAMEROON

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

Background of the study

Leadership skills play a crucial role in navigating the complexities of political development, as evidenced by research in political science and leadership studies. Effective leadership is essential for addressing the challenges and promoting the progress of political development initiatives. However, the intersection of leadership and political development is often fraught with obstacles and dilemmas. One of the key challenges is the prevalence of leadership styles that prioritize self-interest and power accumulation over the public good. Research by Fukuyama (2024) suggests that political leaders who lack ethical principles and accountability can undermine the integrity of political institutions and hinder democratic progress. Corruption, nepotism, and authoritarianism are among the manifestations of poor leadership that impede political development efforts and erode public trust in governance systems (Fukuyama, 2014).

Moreover, the dynamics of leadership transitions and succession present another set of problems for political development. In many contexts, the lack of institutionalized mechanisms for peaceful leadership transitions can lead to instability and conflict. Research by Carothers (2022) highlights the importance of building strong democratic institutions that facilitate smooth leadership transitions and ensure continuity of governance processes. Without effective leadership succession planning and institutional safeguards, political development initiatives may falter, risking setbacks in democratization and governance reforms (Carothers, 2022). Furthermore, the challenge of balancing competing interests and managing diverse stakeholders complicates the task of political leadership in the context of development. Political leaders must navigate complex social, economic, and cultural dynamics while pursuing inclusive and sustainable development agendas. Research by Przeworski et al. (2000) emphasizes the importance of building coalitions and fostering consensus among diverse stakeholders to advance political development goals. However, the process of coalition-building is fraught with challenges, including conflicting priorities, power struggles, and resistance to change (Przeworski et al., 2000). 

Unarguably, Cameroon has navigated a tortuous route towards political stability, economic prosperity, and democratic government. This accomplishment has been accomplished in a number of different ways. With that being said, the path of the nation has been defined by a myriad of problems that have impeded its growth and prompted worries about the status of political development. There is a history of centralised government, authoritarian authority, and a lack of effective checks and balances in Cameroon's political environment. These characteristics define the country's political landscape. Paul Biya took over as president of the country when Ahmadou Ahidjo, the country's first president, resigned in 1982. Since then, Biya has stayed in power and has maintained his influence over the country. Biya's extended term has been distinguished by claims of election fraud, violations of human rights, and a restricted space for political opposition (Chenwi, 2018).

. In spite of the fact that Cameroon formally adopted a multiparty system in 1990, the country continues to struggle with issues concerning the consolidation of democracy and the diversification of political parties. As a result of the dominance of the governing party, the Cameroon People's Democratic Movement (CPDM), opposition voices have been marginalised, and the formation of a lively political environment has been hampered (Kankeu, 2019). Furthermore, the nation's socio-political fabric has been further stretched as a result of recurrent outbreaks of violence, notably in areas such as the Anglophone Northwest and Southwest (Gwanfogbe, 2020). These outbreaks have also created substantial challenges to peace and stability in the country. Therefore, the study examine leadership skills and the problems  of political development in Cameroon.

1.2 Statement of the problem

According to Ngoh (2016), effective leadership is necessary for the development of good governance, the promotion of transparency, and the fulfilment of the requirements of the general population. Nevertheless, the effectiveness of leadership within Cameroon's political arena has been called into question, with worries over the predominance of authoritarian tendencies, corruption, and a lack of accountability (Munshi, 2020). However, the effectiveness of leadership has been called into doubt. Given the intricate interaction of historical legacies, socio-economic inequities, and institutional shortcomings, it is abundantly obvious that there is a definite need for a thorough analysis of leadership abilities and the implications that these talents have for the development of politics in Cameroon. 

In spite of its enormous natural resources and unique cultural history, the Republic of Cameroon, which is located in Central Africa, has not been able to achieve sustained political growth. This is despite the fact that the country has ongoing issues. The political environment of the nation is characterised by a complex interaction of historical legacies, socio-economic inequality, and institutional inadequacies. These factors have interfered with efficient governance and have slowed down progress towards democratisation and socio-economic development. The leadership of Cameroon is one of the most important factors that determines the course of the country's political growth. On the other hand, the effectiveness of leadership within the political arena of the nation has been called into doubt owing to a wide variety of circumstances. In the first place, there is a lack of agreement over the right leadership styles and abilities that are required in order to successfully navigate the varied socio-political terrain surrounding the country. The existence of this uncertainty is a contributing factor in the development of leadership behaviours that are characterised by authoritarianism, clientelism, and patronage networks. These practices weaken democratic values and make governance difficulties even more difficult to manage (Barratt, 2019). Furthermore, Cameroon is struggling with long-standing problems of corruption, nepotism, and cronyism within its political elite. These problems undermine public faith in governmental institutions and make it difficult to provide public services in an efficient manner (Boukongou, 2020). Not only does the existence of such malpractices weaken the legitimacy of political leadership, but it also perpetuates socio-economic inequities and hinders attempts to promote inclusive development (Khan, 2019). Furthermore, socio-economic inequality is perpetuated. 

Furthermore, Cameroon's political growth is hampered by structural impediments, such as poor democratic institutions, restricted civic involvement, and recurring election fraud and political violence (Ndang, 2021). These factors all contribute to the country's political instability. At the same time as these issues intensify social tensions, weaken the rule of law, and obstruct attempts to establish an atmosphere that is favourable to political plurality and citizen involvement, they also undermine the rule of law. In light of these complications, there is an urgent need for a complete assessment of leadership qualities and the implications that these talents have for the development of politics in Cameroon. For the purpose of developing successful solutions to solve governance weaknesses, strengthen institutional resilience, and promote inclusive political processes, it is vital to have a solid understanding of the dynamics of leadership within the context of Cameroon. (Ndang, the year 2021).

1.3 Objective of the study

The broad objective of the study is to examine leadership skills and the problems  of political development in cameroon. The specific objectives is as follows

Assess the current level of political leadership skills in Cameroon

Identify key challenges hindering political development in Cameroon

Explore the relationship between leadership skills and political development in Cameroon.

Propose strategies for enhancing leadership capacities and promoting political development in Cameroon.

1.4 Research questions

The following questions have been prepared to further guide the study

What is the current level of political leadership skills in Cameroon?

What are the key challenges hindering political development in Cameroon?

What is the relationship between leadership skills and political development in Cameroon?

What are the proposed strategies for enhancing leadership capacities and promoting political development in Cameroon?

1.5 Significance of the study

The findings of the study will be significant to the following

Policy Reforms: Insights gained from the study can inform evidence-based policy reforms aimed at enhancing leadership capacities and promoting democratic governance in Cameroon. By identifying the root causes of political challenges and leadership deficiencies, policymakers can design targeted interventions to address governance deficits, strengthen democratic institutions, and foster inclusive political processes.

Academic Contribution: The study contributes to the academic literature on political development, leadership, and governance in Africa. By conducting empirical research and generating new knowledge about the Cameroonian context, scholars can enrich theoretical frameworks, advance methodological approaches, and stimulate further inquiry into similar contexts across the continent.

1.6 Scope of the study

The study focuses on  leadership skills and the problems  of political development in cameroon. Empirically, the study will assess the current level of political leadership skills in Cameroon, identify key challenges hindering political development in Cameroon, explore the relationship between leadership skills and political development in Cameroon and propose strategies for enhancing leadership capacities and promoting political development in Cameroon.

1.7 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.

1.8 Definition of terms

Leadership Skills: Leadership skills refer to the abilities, attributes, and competencies that enable individuals to effectively guide, motivate, and influence others towards the achievement of shared goals and objectives. These skills encompass a range of qualities such as communication, decision-making, problem-solving, emotional intelligence, and strategic vision.

Political Development: Political development refers to the process through which societies evolve and transform their political systems, institutions, and practices to become more democratic, inclusive, and responsive to the needs and aspirations of their citizens. It involves the expansion of political participation, the consolidation of democratic norms, the establishment of the rule of law, and the promotion of good governance.

Democracy: Democracy refers to a system of government characterized by popular sovereignty, political pluralism, electoral competition, respect for human rights, and the rule of law. In a democratic society, citizens have the right to participate in political processes, elect representatives, hold governments accountable, and enjoy fundamental freedoms such as freedom of speech, assembly, and association.

Governance: Governance refers to the process of decision-making, policy implementation, and resource allocation within a society or organization. It encompasses the structures, institutions, mechanisms, and norms that shape the exercise of political authority, the management of public affairs, and the provision of public goods and services. Good governance is characterized by transparency, accountability, inclusivity, and responsiveness to the needs of all stakeholders.

Corruption: Corruption refers to the abuse of entrusted power for private gain, often involving bribery, embezzlement, nepotism, or favoritism. It undermines the integrity of institutions, distorts resource allocation, erodes public trust, and impedes socio-economic development. Combatting corruption requires effective anti-corruption measures, enforcement mechanisms, and a culture of transparency and accountability.

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