Election Umpires in Cameroon (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9789348892867)

The book compares Cameroon's electoral management bodies (EMBs)-the Ministry of Territorial Administration, the National Elections Observatory (NEO), and Elections Cameroon (ELECAM)-to explain persistent voter apathy. Using a comparative descriptive research design and drawing on theories such as Rational Choice Theory, the Sociological Model, and Duverger's Theory, the study employs purposive sampling of both primary and secondary data sources. The findings reveal that EMBs lack autonomy and remain dependent on the state, thereby fueling public distrust. Additional challenges include weak polling infrastructure, partisan bias, and inadequate electoral communication, all of which contribute to low voter turnout and the emergence of what the study describes as an "autocratic democracy." The book recommends reforming ELECAM's legal framework to ensure greater independence, introducing internet voting to improve accessibility, and strengthening electoral information and communication strategies.