The Cameroon government has taken a significant step towards decentralization by submitting two bills to the National Assembly. The bills aim to establish regional councils, a crucial component of the country's decentralization process initiated in 2010. The proposed laws seek to modify and complement certain provisions of the Electoral Code to facilitate the creation of these councils. This development is expected to enhance local governance and bring decision-making closer to the people.
The first bill focuses on the modalities of presentation and constitution of candidatures for the election of regional councilors. It specifies that there will be two categories of councilors: 70 delegates from departments and 20 representatives of traditional leaders. The bill modifies articles 249, 250, and 257 of the Electoral Code, outlining the procedures for the election of councilors. According to the Electoral Code, article 243, two types of personalities can enter the Regional Council: delegates from departments elected by indirect universal suffrage and representatives of traditional command elected by their peers.
The second bill provides details on the number of regional councilors and their distribution by category. It establishes that each region will have 90 councilors, with 70 representing departmental delegates and 20 representing traditional leaders. The bill also specifies that the electoral constituency is constituted by the department, with possible exceptions for certain areas. This distribution aims to ensure equal representation across regions.
The proposed laws are designed to ensure that regional councils are representative and inclusive. The government aims to create a more decentralized system, allowing for greater participation of local populations in decision-making processes. The establishment of regional councils is expected to bring governance closer to the people and enhance the delivery of public services.
The bills were submitted to the National Assembly on March 21, 2019, by the government. The Minister of Territorial Administration and Decentralization, Paul Atanga Nui, has emphasized the importance of these bills in implementing the decentralization process. The government is committed to ensuring that the decentralization process is carried out in a transparent and inclusive manner.
The opposition and other stakeholders have been invited to scrutinize the bills and provide input. The National Assembly will examine the bills and engage in debates before making a final decision. The passage of these bills is expected to mark a significant milestone in Cameroon's decentralization process.
The establishment of regional councils is expected to have a positive impact on local governance and development. It will provide a platform for local leaders to address the specific needs of their regions and promote local economic development. The government is optimistic that the regional councils will help to promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the country.
Key points
- The Cameroon government has submitted two bills to parliament to establish regional councils, a key component of the country's decentralization process.
- The proposed laws aim to modify the Electoral Code and specify the number and distribution of regional councilors.
- The establishment of regional councils is expected to enhance local governance, promote decentralization, and bring decision-making closer to the people.
