Centre for Human Rights and Democracy in Africa (CHRDA)
2007 Parliamentary and Local Government Elections in Cameroon
The government of the Republic of Cameroon on Friday 20 April officially announced that Parliamentary and Local Government elections for 2007 will be held on 22nd July 2007. This move is commended as it will invaluably contribute to the strengthening of the democratic process in the country.
There is therefore the compelling need for government to adhere and respect its obligations under national and international law in ensuring full political participation of its citizens before, during and after these elections. As a state party to International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the government of Cameroon is obligated to create the enabling environment through which all political parties and individuals will be able to effectively participate in the process. Consequent upon the aforesaid, the government is enjoined to give maximum respect to the right of peaceful assembly, the right to freedom of association and the right to take part in public affairs and the right to vote
The political parties involved in the elections should give credence to the highest available standards and should show maturity to ensure that the rights of everyone are respected. The rule of law should take precedence over any other considerations in the period leading to, during and after the elections.
Civil society organizations on their part can and should play a very important role in the political process. They are expected to mobilize resources and efforts to ensure that the elections are not only free and fair but that the individual as well as collective rights of the people are respected. Furthermore, they are expected to liaise with the stakeholders, identify gaps in the electoral process and in a constructive manner bring them to the attention of the government.
All citizens of the Republic of Cameroon have the right to participate in the political process, particularly the right to take part in the conduct of public affairs either directly or indirectly and the right to vote. They are called upon to exercise these rights within the parameters of the law and to immediately report cases of infringement of their rights.
Done and Dated at Buea, this 25th Day of April 2007.
Barrister Nkongho F. Agbor-Balla Esq.
Executive Director.
Centre for Human Rights and Democracy in Africa (CHRDA)
P.O. Box 524 Buea.
www.chrda.org
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