Proposes reforms to better Democratization process in Cameroon including concertation with actors, neutrality of members of ELECAM, ability of ELECAM to proclaim results of elections supervised..
In a remarkable achievement for both himself and the University of Bamenda, Etoh-Anzah George Ighator, North West Bureau Chief for The Horizon Newspaper, has successfully completed his master’s degree in History, presenting a groundbreaking dissertation that explores the evolution of election management bodies in Cameroon from 1990 to 2020. His research, titled “Evolution of Election Management Bodies in Cameroon, 1990 to 2020: A Historical Analysis,” has garnered attention for its in-depth examination of the country’s electoral landscape and the challenges faced by these critical institutions.
George Etoh’s study meticulously chronicles the development of election management bodies in Cameroon, tracing their roots back to the introduction of multi-party politics in the early 1990s. The dissertation highlights key milestones, setbacks, and successes that have defined the nation’s democratic trajectory over the last three decades.
One of the study’s pivotal findings is the significant impact of multi-party politics on the establishment and effectiveness of election management bodies. “The advent of multi-partyism necessitated the creation of institutions capable of ensuring free and fair elections, leading to the evolution from the Ministry of Territorial Administration’s oversight to the establishment of the National Elections Observatory (NEO) and, ultimately, Elections Cameroon (ELECAM)”, the erstwhile journalist told panelists and media men.
George does not shie away from addressing the numerous challenges that have beset these institutions. Issues such as transparency, impartiality, and capacity-building remain prevalent, raising concerns about the credibility of the electoral process. “In the course of my study, I realized that some ELECAM offices are concentrated in Divisional headquarters,” he explained. “This means that a local resident from a remote village like Banya, Ngwo, or Oshie, who may have no connection to their Divisional headquarters of Njikwa, might be unable to vote.”
He advocates for intensified voter registration efforts that reach even the most remote corners of the country and calls for a decentralization of ELECAM’s operations to ensure all citizens have convenient access to participate in elections.
George’s research also delves into the international influence on Cameroon’s electoral system. He investigates how international organizations and donor countries have shaped these institutions over time, providing a historical context that offers valuable lessons for future electoral reforms.
“What inspired this research was the observation of widespread post-election violence,” he noted. “In Cameroon, election results have often been met with significant criticism. I propose that ELECAM, as the body responsible for managing elections, should also be empowered to proclaim the results. This would enhance transparency and accountability.”
He further proposed the respect of the constitution in the appointment of members of the management board of ELECAM.
The researcher’s findings reveal several critical issues plaguing Cameroon’s elections, including a pervasive lack of trust in ELECAM, allegations of favoritism towards certain individuals and political parties especially in crisis-affected regions, and administrative hurdles that hinder opposition candidates. As he embarks on his professional journey armed with this groundbreaking research, Etoh-Anzah George Ighator stands poised to contribute significantly to discussions surrounding electoral reforms in Cameroon. His work not only sheds light on past challenges but also paves the way for a more transparent and accountable electoral process in the future
