The role played by the legal department in the administration of justice in Cameroon

ABSTRACT

The concept of justice has gained grounds in an attempt by the world authorities to guarantee protection for the fundamental rights of the human race. Justice is one of the most important moral and political concepts with no agreed definition. It derives from the Latin word “jus” meaning right or wrong. This study explores the role of the legal department in the administration of justice in Cameroon. Cameroon being a signatory to most international treaties on human rights, like many other jurisdictions in the world through its international commitments as enshrined in the preamble strives to ensure justice for all its citizens. Despite all of these, there are still mishaps in the justice system which cast doubt on the need of ratifying such treatise. As such, the research posed the question how is the role played by the legal department in the administration of justice in Cameroon? With this question in mind the research seeks to examine the effectiveness of the role played by the legal department in the administration of justice in Cameroon. Using doctrinal and empirical approach to data collection through content analysis of relevant Cameroon policy documents and interview sessions with some stakeholder. Results indicate that, the legal department plays an imperative role in the administration of justice. From the investigation stage to sentencing. But then effective implementation is lacking due to procedural and substantive challenges. As such, the research work highlights two key points which is the need for a full independence of the judiciary from other arms of the government and adequate capacity building scheme of court personnel’s which if implemented will enhance Cameroons justice system.