ABSTRACT

A world without corruption would be scenario where integrity, fairness and accountability prevails with its aspect of good governance. Corruption in Cameroon poses a significant and pervasive challenges, undermining governance, impeding economic development eroding public trusts and exacerbating social inequalities. This study aims to investigate Government Structures and the fight against Corruption in Cameroon: A Contribution of the national anti-corruption commission conac. This research made use of a qualitative method, using both primary and secondary data (interview). Through the lens or prism of the Extractive Corruption Theory. Firstly, this study established that sensitization and whistle-blowing efforts have helped to eradicate citizens about the detrimental effect of corruption and the importance of reporting suspected cases. Secondly, it was also discover that conac faces problems at the executive, legislative, and judicial levels couple with the aspect of the private and civil society sector within conac itself and lastly conac proposed six strategies which are now been implemented to the government of Cameroon to fight against corruption such as well-paying civil servant, transparency. Therefore, the study concluded that conac is facing enormous challenges base on the executive branch of government infringing on conac activities making it not independent and the lack to reinforce it decision and sanction to individuals. I recommend that, conac should be giving full autonomy and powers to effectively carried out its own functions, implementing sanctions without been impeding on by the executive arm of government interfering in it activities, therefore making it an independent body.

CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the study
Throughout history, corruption has been a persistent problem that has plagued societies across the world. The root of corruption can be trace back to ancient civilisation where individuals in positions of power often abuse their authority for personal gain. From bribery and favouritism to embezzlement and nepotism, corrupt practices have long been part of human societies AllAfrica.com. As societies evolved and governance structures developed, corruption took on new forms and became more sophisticated. In the modern era, corruption has become a global issue that transcend national boundaries. It affected both developed and developing countries, albeit in varying degrees and manifestation. Firstly; Corruption Perception Index CPI. The CPI published annually by Transparency international, measures the perceived levels of corruption in countries around the world. It assigned scores ranging from 0 to 100 with higher scores indicating lower levels of perceived corruption. The index is based on expert assessment and surveys of businesspeople and citizens. For example in the 2020 CPI scores ranged from 89 [least corrupt] to 9[most corrupt], Secondly Global Corruption Barometer GCB the GCB also conducted by transparency international, collect public opinions on corruption. It surveys individuals from various countries asking about their personal experience with corruption and their perception of corruption in different institution. Thirdly; Impact on Development. According to the world bank, corruption diverts resources away from essential services, such as healthcare and education leading to negative impact on human development. It is estimated that corruption adds up to 10 percent to the cost of doing business globally and slow economic growth by 2 percent per year. And lastly Money Laundering; Illicit financial flow often resulting from corrupt practices, contribute to money laundering. The United Nations estimated that between 1.6 trillion and 2.2 trillion are laundered annually
This study will also focus on the aspect of corruption in Africa in this second paragraph. In studying corruption in Africa, it is important to consider the diverse perspectives and views that exist within the continent. The views on corruption in Africa can vary, reflecting the complexity of the issue and the different experiences of individuals, communities, and countries source, Jeune Afrique. Here are some common views on corruption in Africa. Firstly; Negative Perception. Corruption is often viewed negatively in Africa as is recognized as a significant obstacle to development, good governance, and well-being of citizens. Many people perceived corruption as a widespread problem that hampers economic growth, undermines public trust, and diverts resources away from essential service such as healthcare, education and infrastructure. Secondly; Colonial Legacy. The colonial period in Africa which lasted until the mid-20th century had a significant impact on the continent’s governance structures. Colonial powers often imposed systems that prioritized their own interest, leading to the exploitation of resources and the marginalization of local populations independence. Thirdly. This created a culture of corruption and patronage that persisted after weak institutions. Many African countries faced challenges in building strong institution after gaining independence. The transition from colonial rule to self- governance was accompanied by political instability fragile governance systems and limited capacity to enforce laws and regulation. These weaknesses provide fertile ground for corruption to flourish. And lastly; Political instability. Africa has witnessed periods of political instability including coups, civil wars, and conflicts. These situations create opportunities for corruption to thrive, as personal gain and consolidating power. The lack of stable governance structures and rule of law further exacerbates corruption challenges. It is essential not only to discuss about the world and Africa at large but to delve more detailly on the study on ground which is Cameroon in particular.
The need to combat corruption in Cameroon became more apparent between the late 1990s and early 2000s, the period during which the toll of corruption on the society appeared to have accelerated (Fombad, 2003). Author argued that corruption was prevalent in Cameroon’s public services before the 1980s but that it was not widespread, generalized, or as deep-rooted as it became evident in the 2000s (Fombad, 2003). In another study, the author dubbed corruption in Cameroon endemic, explaining that corruption has permeated almost every aspect of Cameroonian daily life, meanwhile, public officials seem to have either severely underestimated, or completely ignored, the 5 consequences of this epidemic (Fombad, 2000). According to Fombad (2000), high levels and vast scales of corruption remain among the main causes of Cameroon’s economic and political problems. In response, the government launched its first open national initiative against corruption in the country in 2006 with the creation of a NACC, 2008. This agency would now champion government’s anticorruption policy across the nation, leading the implementation of such policy, giving feedback to the president and the legislature for the crafting of laws that will enhance the agency’s activities, and also mandating and facilitating the prosecution of culprits of corruption in criminal courts NACC, 2008
Although several top-ranked government officials were arrested and incarcerated through this operation, such as the arrest of the former prime minister on April 16, 2012 (Regional Anti-Corruption Initiative, 2012), the Cameroonian population still harbored mixed feelings on how successful government anticorruption efforts had been in Cameroon. The approach to prevent corruption in Cameroon was said to be limited to the 6 application of Article 66 of the Constitution of the Republic of Cameroon, which demanded that top-ranking government officials declare their assets before and after serving in a public office (Houmfa, 2012). The strict reliance on the preceding article as the sole major legal measure for curbing public corruption appeared to be insufficient to treat the corruption disease that had been rooted into the culture of the entire society.
The Cameroon head of state created a special criminal court that would try officials accused of embezzling public funds amounting to a minimum value of 50 million CFA francs (Houmfa, 2012). This action was being implemented alongside other anticorruption laws, some of which were dubbed defective by public opinion, especially parliament’s decision in December 2011, which stipulated that charges against individuals found guilty of corruption would be dropped if they paid back missing funds to the government (Houmfa, 2012). On the one hand, this measure sent a positive message to the public in the fight against corruption, as it might had entailed that the government wanted by all means to retrieve public funds from citizens who might have embezzled them by reason of the devil’s temptation or without premeditation and as such were willing to repent (Houmfa, 2012). On the other hand, this measure could result in serious negative consequences for the anticorruption effort in general, as it incentivized public officials to orchestrate embezzlements through money laundry and other investment schemes granted that their liability was now limited by the legislature to the starting capital misappropriated. The financial gain made from investing embezzled state funds was not censored in a piece of legislation rendered hapless by the absence of a preceding government white paper that would have enabled the public to identify loopholes and closure mechanisms.
1.2 Statement of the problem
A world / country without corruption would be a scenario where integrity, fairness and accountability prevail that is what ought to be in society where corruption is not cultivated will enhance growth and development which are advance by some point; Firstly; Just and Fair Society. In a corruption-free world, fairness and justice would be the guiding principles in all aspect of life. Laws would be upheld and enforce consistently ensuring equal opportunities for all individuals. Secondly; Trustworthy Institutions; without corruption, institution such as government bodies judiciary, and law enforcement gain the trust of the people. Public servant would be honest, competent, and dedicated to serving their best interest of society. Thirdly there would be equal access to basic services, corruption often leads to the unfair distribution of resources, denying basic services to those in need. A world would ensure equal access to necessities like healthcare, education, clean water, and sanitation citizens. Fourthly; Enhance Global Cooperation. Corruption undermines international relations and cooperation. A world without corruption would foster stronger collaborations between nations built upon trust and honest dealings, promoting peace and stability. In addition, it would strengthen democracy. Corruption erode the foundation of democracy, as it undermines the faith of the people in their elected representatives. A corruption-free world let say Cameroon for instance would strengthening democratic institutions, enabling citizens to participate in decision making processes with confidence. And lastly, achieving a corruption-free society requires a multifaceted approach involving strong political will, dedicated resources, and the engagement of all stakeholders. It is a long-term process that requires sustained commitment and continuous monitoring and evaluation of anti-corruption measures, thus having a country without corruption is very rare due to the nature of human beings in the international system.
Contrary to the above, in Cameroon, Corruption in Cameroon poses a significance and pervasive challenges, undermining governance, impeding economic development, eroding public trusts, and exacerbating social inequalities. The problem of corruption in Cameroon can be examined in the following key aspect; Firstly, Governance and institution. Corruption weakens governance structures and institution in Cameroon, eroding rule, distorting decision-making processes and eroding public confidence. It undermines the effectiveness and credibility of government bodies hindering their ability to provide essential services, promote social justice, and ensure equitable distribution of resources. Corruption in public administration, judiciary, law enforcement and regulatory agencies hampers their ability function with integrity and transparency. Secondly Economic Impact; Corruption has detriment effects on economic development in Cameroon. It distorts market mechanism, impedes fair competition, and divert resources meant for public investment into private hands. Corruption increase the cost od doing business, discourage domestic and foreign investment, and stifles entrepreneurship and innovation. This hinders economic growth, job creation, and perpetuates economic inequality particularly impacting the most vulnerable population. Thirdly; Political Processes. Corruption in Cameroon undermines democratic processes and compromises the integrity of electoral system. It distorts political competition, undermines the credibility of elected representatives, and erodes public confidence in political leadership. Corruption can lead to the capture of state institution by vested interest, hindering good governance and impeding efforts to combat corruption effectively and impunity and accountability couple with social impact. Lastly addressing the problem of corruption in Cameroon requires concerted efforts and comprehensive strategies. It involves strengthening governance, institution, promoting transparency and accountability, enhancing the rule of law and fostering a culture of integrity. Effective anticorruption measures should include robust enforcement of laws, independent and efficient judiciary whistle-blower protection and citizens participation. International cooperation and technical assistance can also play a crucial role in supporting Cameroon’s efforts to combat corruption through CONAC and this research will delve on studying Government Structures and the fight Against Corruption in Cameroon; A contribution of the national anti-corruption commission and to promote sustainable development in Cameroon.
 
1.3 Research Questions
This study was guided by one overarching question and three sub questions. The main research question for this is;
1.3.1 Main research question
‘What are the contribution of the National Anti-Corruption Commission in fighting Corruption in Cameroon?
1.3.2 Specific research question
1. TO WHAT EXTENT HAS SENSITISATION AND WHISTLE-BLOWING BY CONAC CONTRIBUTION IN FIGHTING CORRUPTION IN CAMEROON?
2. WHAT ARE THE CHALLENGES THAT CONAC IS FACING IN FIGHTING CORRUPTION IN CAMEROON?
3. WHAT MEASURES CAN BE PUT IN PLACE TO BOOSTER CONAC’S EFFORT IN FIGHTING CORRUPTION IN CAMEROON?