AN ASSESSMENT OF PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS ON  THE FUTURE OF DEMOCRACY IN CAMEROON

CHAPTER ONE

 INTRODUCTION

Background of the study

Ateku (2017) asserts that Africans are actively pursuing democracy as a means of ensuring their survival. They hold the belief that there are no viable alternatives to this pursuit, since they see no potential losses and anticipate significant benefits. Africa is now seeing a rapid and widespread movement towards democracy and decent governance. In the last quarter of the twentieth century, several African nations saw a shift from authoritarian to democratic systems of administration, aligning with the prevailing worldwide trend. This development has led advocates of democracy to refer to it as the "third wave of democratisation in world history" (Ateku, 2017). The emergence of the third wave in Africa has been attributed to the events surrounding the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, as well as the subsequent downfall of single-party governments in Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union. It is widely considered that this event established the groundwork for African pro-democracy activists who had previously initiated efforts to mobilise against instances of human rights violations and political suppression. The internal catalyst for political dissatisfaction and rebellion against autocracy in many African countries was the profound economic stagnation and decline, which resulted in widespread poverty and hardship (Schraeder, ibid). The primary consequence of this significant juncture, commonly referred to as "Africa's second independence or Africa's second liberation," was the erosion of over three decades of practice with single-party political structures in favour of more democratic modes of governance rooted in multiparty politics and the safeguarding of human rights (Hunter, Mokone, Ndenze & Jika, 2016).  Cameroon, located in the region of Central Africa, has a multifaceted political environment that has been influenced by a historical context of colonialism, a multitude of ethnic groups, and many socio-economic obstacles. Cameroon, after its attainment of independence from France in 1960 and the United Kingdom in 1961, has seen a sequence of presidential elections that have often been characterised by controversy and tainted by accusations of irregularities and a dearth of transparency. In light of this context, it is essential to comprehend the ramifications of presidential elections on the prospective trajectory of democracy in Cameroon.

Democracy is a comprehensive notion that goes beyond regular elections. It includes safeguarding civil rights, upholding the rule of law, ensuring accountability, promoting openness, and facilitating the meaningful involvement of individuals in decision-making processes (Hunter, Mokone, Ndenze & Jika, 2016). In the context of Cameroon, the establishment and strengthening of democratic institutions have encountered several obstacles, including political suppression, instances of corruption, ethnic conflicts, and socio-economic disparities. Presidential elections are often regarded as a crucial indicator of the democratic condition inside a given country. In Cameroon, these elections often exhibit a lack of political competition, since the current leader maintains a strong hold on power. The concentration of power within a single political party or leader has the potential to erode the fundamental tenets of democracy, resulting in a dearth of mechanisms for oversight and accountability, a gradual degradation of political liberties, and the marginalisation of dissenting perspectives (Perraudin, 2015).

Furthermore, the integrity and validity of the voting process in Cameroon have been called into question due to charges of electoral fraud and manipulation. The occurrence of voter intimidation, the repression of dissent, and the imposition of limits on media freedom have elicited apprehensions on both national and global scales about the equity and openness of electoral processes. According to Shalala (2016), the results of presidential elections in Cameroon have a profound impact on the nation's political environment, as well as on regional stability and international ties. The significance of democratic governance for Cameroon's development and stability is underscored by its strategic location in Central Africa, abundant natural resources, and participation in regional organisations such as the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) and the African Union (AU).

In light of this context, the objective of this research is to evaluate the influence of presidential elections on the prospective development of democracy in Cameroon. The study aims to identify significant challenges and opportunities for advancing democratic governance in Cameroon by conducting an analysis of previous electoral processes, examining the socio-political context, and exploring the perspectives of diverse stakeholders, such as government officials, opposition leaders, civil society actors, and ordinary citizens (Shalala, 2016). The primary objective of this study is to provide valuable insights that may be used to suggest policy measures that might effectively bolster democratic institutions, uphold election integrity, and improve political participation and representation in Cameroon. This research aims to further the larger conversation on democratic governance in Africa and other regions by examining the relationship between presidential elections and the future of democracy.

1.2 Statement of the problem

In recent times, Cameroon has seen a sequence of presidential elections, which have had a significant impact on the political environment and have the ability to shape the course of democracy inside the country. Nevertheless, in the middle of these electoral procedures, there have been apprehensions raised questioning the integrity, equity, and overall influence of these elections on the establishment and progression of democratic ideals inside the nation. An in-depth analysis of the consequences of presidential elections on the future of democracy in Cameroon is required to address the current issue (Shalala, 2016). This evaluation covers several aspects, such as election openness, governmental institution accountability, public involvement, political plurality, and respect for human rights. There are significant inquiries that emerge on the degree to which presidential elections in Cameroon have respected democratic norms and institutions. Do these elections exhibit principles of freedom and fairness, therefore facilitating genuine competition and the inclusion of a wide range of political interests? The influence of election procedures and results on voters' faith in the democratic system and its institutions is a subject of inquiry. Furthermore, what are the ramifications of these elections for the advancement of basic freedoms, civil rights, and the rule of law within the society of Cameroon? Moreover, the issue also encompasses comprehending the wider socio-political consequences of presidential elections on the stability, inclusiveness, and legitimacy of governing systems in Cameroon (Shalala, 2016). How much can election dynamics influence the promotion or erosion of national unity, social cohesion, and peaceful cohabitation among varied ethnic, linguistic, and regional communities?

To tackle these crucial problems, a comprehensive examination is necessary, taking into account the viewpoints of many stakeholders such as political figures, civil society groups, election monitors, and regular residents. This study aims to provide significant insights for policymakers, electoral authorities, and foreign actors that are interested in supporting democratic growth and good governance efforts in Cameroon by analysing the relationship between presidential elections and the future of democracy in the country. Hence, the study will assess presidential elections on  the future of democracy in Cameroon.

1.3 Objective of the study

The broad objective of the study is to assess presidential elections on  the future of democracy in Cameroon. The specific objectives is as follows

To analyze the impact of presidential elections on the democratic process in Cameroon.

To assess the role of electoral institutions in ensuring fair and transparent presidential elections in Cameroon.

To explore the implications of presidential elections on the governance structure and political stability of Cameroon.

1.4 Research questions

The following questions have been prepared to guide the study

What is the impact of presidential elections on the democratic process in Cameroon?

What are the role of electoral institutions in ensuring fair and transparent presidential elections in Cameroon?

What are the implications of presidential elections on the governance structure and political stability of Cameroon?

1.5 Significance of the study

The findings of the study is significant to the following

Governanment: Elections are central to the functioning of democratic systems by providing citizens with the opportunity to participate in the political process and hold their leaders accountable. Analyzing the impact of Presidential elections on democracy in Cameroon can reveal insights into the levels of political participation, voter turnout, and the effectiveness of electoral processes. This understanding is vital for enhancing governance and promoting inclusive political participation.

Academia: the study will be of benefit to the academic community as it will contribute to the existing literature.

1.6 Scope of the study

The study focuses on assessing  presidential elections on  the future of democracy in Cameroon. Empirically, the study will analyze the impact of presidential elections on the democratic process in Cameroon, assess the role of electoral institutions in ensuring fair and transparent presidential elections in Cameroon and explore the implications of presidential elections on the governance structure and political stability of Cameroon.

1.7 Research Methodology

Research methodology deals with the different ways or methods the researcher applied in order to carry out the research as well as the instrument used for gathering the data. There are several research methodologies appropriate for answering the research questions. The type of research methodology used in this research to gather data and relevant information is the historical research and the study will adopt descriptive method of data collection. This will involve the collection of materials from secondary sources, such as books, journal articles, magazines, internet sources, international and national conference proceedings, published and unpublished articles.

1.8 Definition of terms

Presidential Elections: The electoral process through which citizens of Cameroon choose their head of state, the President, typically through voting. This process involves campaigning, voting, and tallying of votes, ultimately determining the individual who will hold the highest executive office in the country.

Future of Democracy: The projected trajectory or evolution of democratic principles, institutions, practices, and norms within the political landscape of Cameroon. Democracy: A system of governance characterized by principles such as political pluralism, equal representation, accountability of leaders to citizens, protection of human rights, rule of law, and mechanisms for peaceful transfer of power. 

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