POLITICAL PARTIES: CONTRIBUTIONS  OF  PARTY SUPPORTERS TO  THE SUCCESS OF PARTY CANDIDATE ELECTION IN CAMEROON

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

Background of the study

Cameroon, a nation characterised by its diversity and multiethnic composition, has had notable political advancements subsequent to its attainment of independence in 1960. Throughout history, the political environment has been influenced by a multitude of elements, including the enduring effects of colonialism, interethnic conflicts, economic obstacles, and endeavours towards the establishment of democratic systems (Adele, 2019). In light of this context, political parties have developed as key entities in the governance and electoral procedures of the nation. According to Jörg (2016), the political party system in Cameroon has a wide range of parties that advocate for various ideological, ethnic, and regional concerns. Nevertheless, starting from the 1980s, the Cameroon People's Democratic Movement (CPDM) has had significant control over the political landscape, with President Paul Biya assuming leadership since 1982. The CPDM has effectively retained political power despite the existence of opposition parties, prompting inquiries on the effectiveness of opposition endeavours and the intricacies of electoral rivalry (Michael & Schatzberg, 2021). The role performed by party followers is a crucial factor that significantly influences election results in Cameroon. The group of persons who actively participate in advancing the objectives of their respective political parties during elections is sometimes referred to as party supporters. These supporters make contributions via several means, such as providing financial gifts, mobilising at the grassroots level, volunteering for campaigns, and engaging in advocacy activities (Zephirin, 2017). Their actions often have a crucial impact on moulding public sentiment, rallying votes, and eventually swaying election outcomes. It is commonly recognised that party supporters play a significant role in Cameroon's election process. However, there is a lack of extensive study that particularly examines their contributions and dynamics. Prior research often provides comprehensive summaries of Cameroon's political environment or analyses election procedures from a macroscopic standpoint, neglecting the intricate contributions made by party followers at the local level. Furthermore, there is a lack of research on the underlying reasons that motivate party followers, the impact of their contributions, and the tactics used by political parties to rally and use the energy of their supporters. A comprehensive grasp of these processes is vital in order to formulate effective approaches aimed at fortifying democratic institutions, augmenting election integrity, and fostering political engagement and representation (Carlson, 2016). Hence, the primary objective of this research is to examine the complexities surrounding the participation of party supporters in the election process of Cameroon, with the intention of offering a comprehensive comprehension of their contributions and dynamics. The project aims to fill the existing void in academic literature by providing useful insights to academia, policymakers, political parties, and electoral stakeholders. The ultimate objective is to promote a democratic system in Cameroon that is more inclusive, transparent, and participatory.

1.2 Statement of the problem

In the political context of Cameroon, the electoral outcomes of party candidates are not only contingent upon their personal qualities, but rather are notably shaped by the contributions and activities of party followers. Although the significance of supporters in political campaigns and election results is recognised in the current body of literature, there is a lack of specialised study examining the precise contributions made by party followers and their influence on the success of party candidates in Cameroon (Emmanuel, 2015). The objective of this study is to address the limited comprehension of the many roles that party followers play in aiding the electoral triumph of party candidates in Cameroon. It is necessary to clarify the many types of assistance offered by party supporters, including monetary donations, grassroots mobilisation initiatives, campaign participation, and social media promotion, and assess their impact on election results (John, 2021). Moreover, there is a lack of research on the intricacies of party supporter participation, such as their reasons, degree of involvement, demographic traits, and the tactics adopted by political parties to rally and utilise supporter donations (Piet, 2021). A comprehensive comprehension of these dynamics is vital in formulating efficacious methods to exploit supporter donations and augment the electoral possibilities of party candidates. Hence, the study looks into political parties: Contributions  of  party supporters to  the success of party candidate election in Cameroon.

1.3 Objective of the study

The broad objective of the study is to look into Political parties: Contributions  of  party supporters to  the success of party candidate election in Cameroon. The specific objectives is as follows

Examine the effectiveness of grassroots mobilization efforts by party supporters in enhancing the electoral success of party candidates in Cameroon.

Investigate the extent to which financial contributions from party supporters influence the success of party candidate elections in Cameroon

Explore the role of media engagement by party supporters in shaping public opinion and influencing electoral success of candidates in Cameroon

Evaluate the contribution of  campaign participation by party supporters to the success of party candidate elections in Cameroon.

1.4 Research questions

The following questions have been prepared to further guide the study

Investigate the extent to which financial contributions from party supporters influence the success of party candidate elections in Cameroon

What is the role of media engagement by party supporters in shaping public opinion and influencing electoral success of candidates in Cameroon?

How effective is  grassroots mobilization efforts by party supporters in enhancing the electoral success of party candidates in Cameroon?

What is the contribution of  campaign participation by party supporters to the success of party candidate elections in Cameroon?

1.5 Significance of the study

The findings of the study will be significant to the following

Political Party: Examining the contributions of party supporters can reveal important information about party organization and strategy. Understanding how parties mobilize their supporters, allocate resources, and coordinate campaign efforts provides valuable insights into the internal functioning of political parties in Cameroon.

Academic Contribution: This research adds to the existing body of knowledge on political science, particularly in the context of African politics. By providing empirical evidence and analysis, it enriches academic discourse on party politics, elections, and democratic governance in Cameroon and beyond.

1.6 Scope of the study

The study focuses on  political parties: Contributions  of  party supporters to  the success of party candidate election in Cameroon. Empirically, the study will investigate the extent to which financial contributions from party supporters influence the success of party candidate elections in Cameroon, examine the effectiveness of grassroots mobilization efforts by party supporters in enhancing the electoral success of party candidates in Cameroon, explore the role of social media engagement by party supporters in shaping public opinion and influencing electoral success of candidates in Cameroon and evaluate the contribution of  campaign participation by party supporters to the success of party candidate elections 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

Political Parties: Organizations comprised of individuals with shared political ideologies, goals, and interests, aiming to influence government policies and gain political power through electoral processes.

Party Supporters: Individuals who align themselves with a particular political party and actively support its candidates and agenda. Party supporters may include party members, activists, volunteers, donors, and voters who identify with the party's ideology and objectives.

Success of Party Candidate Election: The outcome of an electoral contest in which a candidate representing a political party secures victory and is elected to public office. Success in party candidate elections is measured by factors such as the number of votes received, the margin of victory, and the candidate's ability to assume the elected position.