Cameroon’s Efforts to Combat Corruption: A Mixed Bag

YAOUNDE - Cameroon’s efforts to combat corruption have been met with mixed results, according to a report released by the country’s government. The report highlights several areas where improvements are needed to strengthen the fight against corruption.

Recommendations for Improvement

• Adopt sentencing guidelines to encourage consistency in sentencing throughout the courts and ensure that punishments fit the crimes.
• Regulate procedures for lifting immunities in appropriate cases and adopt measures to ensure that discretionary legal powers relating to the prosecution of corruption offenses are exercised effectively.
• Stipulate conditions for granting and revoking conditional release, taking into account the gravity of the offense.

Strengthening Asset Management and Data Gathering

• Develop stronger asset management systems to track statistics on implementation.
• Gather data on the scope of corruption in the country to develop more effective strategies to combat it.

Protecting Witnesses, Experts, and Victims

• Take measures to protect witnesses, experts, and victims from potential retaliation or intimidation, as well as cooperating offenders.

International Cooperation

• Sign extradition treaties with other countries.
• Establish consultation procedures with neighbors.
• Consider recruiting staff for CONAC by public competitions rather than co-option.

Progress and Challenges Ahead

While the report highlights several areas where improvements are needed, it also notes that Cameroon has made significant progress in combating corruption. The government’s efforts to strengthen its laws and institutions are commendable, and the country is to be praised for its commitment to combating this serious problem.

Technical Assistance Needed

The report identifies technical assistance needs to improve implementation of the Convention, including:

• Training for judges and prosecutors on anti-corruption laws and procedures.
• Capacity building in areas such as asset management and data gathering.

Conclusion

While Cameroon’s efforts to combat corruption are commendable, there is still much work to be done. The government must continue to strengthen its laws and institutions to ensure that those who engage in corrupt activities are held accountable. With technical assistance and international cooperation, Cameroon can build a stronger, more effective anti-corruption regime.