ASSESSING THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANIZATIONS IN PROMOTING DEMOCRACY AND ACCOUNTABILITY IN CAMEROON POLITICAL SPHERE

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

Background of the study

The conclusion of the twentieth century saw a rise in the discourse around the potential contribution of citizens in the endeavour to establish functional and enduring democracies in sub-Saharan Africa. The recent sense of urgency has arisen due to the significant failure of totalitarian regimes to provide basic social, economic, and political resources for the majority of their citizens, as well as the worsening crisis of underdevelopment. As a result, there is now increased pressure, both from within and outside these states, to transition towards democracy (Barratt & Maddox, 2016). The primary focus of the discussion has been on identifying the tactics, alternatives, and forces that may be used to facilitate a democratic transition within the framework of globally accepted standards. This analysis also takes into account the unique historical, political, and economic characteristics of the specific state or area. A new consensus has formed in the international community, recognising the significance of citizens and citizens' movements in fostering institutions and practices that support the development of sustainable democratic systems and traditions. Cameroon, situated in Central Africa, had a diverse and intricate political past characterised by colonial rule, campaigns for independence, and subsequent issues in government throughout the post-colonial era. Cameroon has successfully managed several political administrations, transitions, and crises since obtaining independence in 1960. Despite the frequent occurrence of elections, there are ongoing worries about the strengthening of democracy and the efficient operation of democratic institutions. These concerns include matters such as transparency, accountability, and public involvement (Bryman, 2016). 

Civil society organisations (CSOs) have become vital participants in influencing the political environment of the nation. Civil society organisations (CSOs) cover a wide array of non-governmental institutions, such as advocacy groups, human rights organisations, professional associations, and grassroots movements, among others. These organisations have a crucial role in magnifying the voices of people, campaigning for political changes, monitoring government activities, and promoting democratic principles and practices. The research aims to analyse the diverse and complex roles played by civil society organisations in enhancing democracy and accountability in Cameroon's political domain. The motivation for this investigation stems from the acknowledgment of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) as influential catalysts for transformation and their capacity to enhance democratic governance within the nation. The research seeks to illuminate the efficacy, problems, and possibilities related to the operations of CSOs by comprehending their involvement dynamics (Cheeseman, 2018).

CSOs play a crucial role in lobbying for political reforms and institutional improvements that seek to enhance democratic governance. Over time, civil society organisations (CSOs) in Cameroon have advocated for changes in the election system, modifications to the constitution, and reorganisation of institutions in order to improve openness, justice, and inclusiveness in the political process. CSOs have used lobbying, public awareness campaigns, and legal advocacy to apply pressure on policymakers and shape the policymaking process in accordance with democratic principles and ideals (Dijck, Munck, & Terpstra, 2017). 

In addition, civil society organisations have a crucial function in overseeing and ensuring that government officials are held responsible for their actions and choices. CSOs engage in research, investigations, and fact-finding expeditions to independently oversee and scrutinise official actions. In doing so, they uncover instances of corruption, human rights abuses, and breaches of democratic principles (Ewald & Mhamba, 2019). CSOs aim to ensure that individuals or organisations responsible for wrongdoing are held accountable and push for corrective measures to remedy deficiencies in governance. They do this via activities such as media outreach, public reporting, and legal action. 

Furthermore, Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) function as forums for citizen involvement and empowerment, promoting dynamic engagement in political procedures and public matters. CSOs use civic education programmes, community mobilisation campaigns, and grassroots organising activities to enable people to assert their rights, express their concerns, and engage actively in decision-making processes. CSOs play a crucial role in connecting individuals and politicians, enabling meaningful discussions, fostering social unity, and establishing networks to collectively strive for democratic improvements and societal transformation. 

Civil society organisations in Cameroon encounter several obstacles that impede their efficacy and long-term viability, notwithstanding their notable contributions (Hart, 2018). The problems encompassed in this context consist of stringent legal frameworks, governmental suppression of opposition, few resources, and risks to the safety and security of activists and advocates. In addition, Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) often have internal limitations in terms of their capabilities, challenges related to governance, and difficulty in coordinating their efforts. These factors may weaken their effectiveness and credibility. This research seeks to provide a thorough examination of the contributions, problems, and opportunities of civil society organisations in promoting democracy and accountability in Cameroon's political realm (Saskia, 2019). The research aims to analyse the methods, procedures, and results of CSO involvement in order to provide valuable insights and suggestions for policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders who are interested in enhancing democratic governance and civic participation in Cameroon and other regions.

1.2 Statement of the problem

Cameroon, similar to many other countries, confronts persistent obstacles in the establishment of democracy and maintaining governmental transparency inside its political structure. In the face of these difficulties, civil society organisations (CSOs) have become crucial participants, pushing for democratic values and ensuring that governmental institutions are accountable to the general public (Saskia, 2019). Nevertheless, the specific scope and effectiveness of Civil Society Organisations' (CSOs) contributions to promoting democracy and accountability have not been thoroughly investigated within the framework of Cameroon's political environment. 

This research seeks to fill this void by conducting a thorough evaluation of the role played by civil society organisations in promoting democracy and upholding accountability in Cameroon's political domain. 

1.3 Objective of the study

The broad objective of the study is to assess the contributions of civil society organizations in promoting democracy and accountability in Cameroon political sphere. The specific objectives is as follows

Assess the level of civil society organizations in promoting democracy and accountability in Cameroon political sphere. 

Analyze the role of CSOs in facilitating democratic principles within Cameroon's political sphere.

Explore the mechanisms utilized by CSOs to monitor governance accountability among political actors.

Identify the obstacles faced by CSOs in their efforts to promote democracy and accountability in Cameroon's political sphere.

1.4 Research questions

The following research questions have been prepared to guide the study

What is the level of civil society organizations in promoting democracy and accountability in Cameroon political sphere?

What is the role of CSOs in facilitating democratic principles within Cameroon's political sphere?

What are the mechanisms utilized by CSOs to monitor governance accountability among political actors?

What are the obstacles faced by CSOs in their efforts to promote democracy and accountability in Cameroon's political sphere?

1.5 Significance of the study

The findings of the study will be significant to the following

Policymakers: Understanding the role of civil society organizations (CSOs) in promoting democracy and accountability can provide valuable insights for policymakers in Cameroon. By comprehending the effectiveness of these organizations, policymakers can design better policies to support and enhance their contributions.

Academia: The study will add to the academic literature on democratization and governance in Africa, particularly in the context of civil society's role. It provides a foundation for further research and analysis, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in this field.

1.6 Scope of the study

The study focuses on assess the contributions of civil society organizations in promoting democracy and accountability in Cameroon political sphere. Empirically, the study will assess the level of civil society organizations in promoting democracy and accountability in Cameroon political sphere, analyze the role of CSOs in facilitating democratic principles within Cameroon's political sphere, explore the mechanisms utilized by CSOs to monitor governance accountability among political actors and identify the obstacles faced by CSOs in their efforts to promote democracy and accountability in Cameroon's political sphere.

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

Civil society: the wide array of non-governmental and not-for-profit organizations that have a presence in public life, expressing the interests and values of their members or others, based on ethical, cultural, political, scientific, religious or philanthropic considerations.

Democracy: government by the people

Accountability: an assurance that an individual or organization is evaluated on its performance or behavior related to something for which it is responsible