Abstract

The study entitled the African Commission of Human Rights is to understand the reason why elections do not meet standards of being free and fair, peaceful, transparent and its impact on the democratic process of the country, if leaders are legitimately and democratically elected through majority vote.

The study was based on the following hypothesis electoral committees play no role in the organization of election in Cameroon, the election observers play no role in determining the outcome of election, the democratic process in Cameroon lacks a substantial equality in election.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION AND METHODOLOGY

1.1 Background to the Study

Democracy as a concept is a creation of modern age in the politics of Cameroon. Multiparty democracy came in to Cameroon practice in the early 1990s when the country responded to this wind of change.

Democracy has taken a number of forms both in practice and in theory. The word democracy came from two Greek words “Demos” (the people) and “Kratos” (the rale). Democracy is thus the role by the people. It is a form of government distinguishing positive rule by kings and Queens. According to Abraham Lincoln, democracy is government of the people, by the people and for the people.

The brain behind democracy was the rebirth of multiparty politics. This meant multiparty democracy, freedoms and rights, the rules of law as well as good governance. In other words, the one party or the monolithera characterize by the abuse of public liberties had to give way to pheralism. Nevertheless, the government’s desire to attain democracy was put into test during the first democratic presidential and legislative elections held in March 1992 followed by municipal in 1997.

It is generally believed that a phiralist democracy is a better guarantor of human rights and freedom than a one party dictatorship. However, democracy is not the final goal; it is only the means to achieve the final goal which is the good life; the happiness and wellbeing of all Cameroonians. Human beings are happy and very productive when they enjoy freedom of mind and body. This can only be achieved in an atmosphere of peace and stability guaranteed by a stable and good government. The space towards democracy and elections in Cameroon can be seen through the restoration of full multi-party democracy with free and fair elections

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Democracy can easily be through the protection of human right. Provision of social security checks on corruption and strict accountability. Other ways that could lead to a smooth attainment of democracy include regular free and fair elections, control on state terrorism for crushing the opposition and respect of law by elected members.

Despite the struggle to achieve a democratic government, an assessment of the electoral process in Cameroon in relation of democracy reveals that the conduct of elections in Cameroon had been marred by fraud and irregularities. Thus, one will be tempted to ask;

What strategies were put in place by the government to successfully achieve a democratic society?

How did the expansion of democratic space affect election in Cameroon?

What were the causes of the crises of democracy in Cameroon?

Knowing how the expansion of democratic space in Cameroon affects, the electoral process could be use as an effective tool to measure the rate of Cameroon’s political growth. This study is also intended to bring up plausible solutions and strategies that could help the government survive the problems of democracy.

1.3 Research Questions

The following are the research questions that will guide this research project:

1. Does the democratic process in Cameroon lack a substantial equality in election?
2. What role does electoral committees ELECAM play in the organization of elections in Cameroon e.g. (MINAT, ELECAM)
3. Do election observers have a role to play in determining the outcome of elections?

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