REVIEW ON THE INFLUENCE OF ETHNIC POLITICIZATION ON PROMOTION IN  CAMEROON CIVIL SERVICE

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

Background of the study

In many African countries, post-colonial governments inherited complex ethnic landscapes characterized by diverse linguistic, cultural, and religious groups. These governments often struggle to manage and accommodate these diversities within the framework of a unified nation-state. As argued by Chabal and Daloz (2019), the failure to address ethnic grievances and inequalities has fueled resentment and competition for political power among different ethnic groups. Englebert, (2020) stated that the legacy of colonialism has left behind institutions and structures that perpetuate ethnic favoritism and exclusion. Neopatrimonial systems, characterized by clientelism, patronage, and ethnic-based distribution of resources, have entrenched ethnic politics in many African states. The primary accusation against ethnic differentiation is that it serves as a leading catalyst for violent civil conflicts. 

Practically, the civil service, as an essential arm of government responsible for implementing government policies and delivering public services., is expected to function based on merit and professionalism to effectively deliver public services. However, in many African countries, including Cameroon, Nyamnjoh, (2022) notes that ethnic considerations often overshadow meritocracy, leading to inefficiencies and inequities within the civil service. Literarily, Geschiere, (2019) maintained that in developed countries, promotion in civil service is based on merit and is open to all qualified civil servants. To be eligible for promotion, a civil servant must meet the requirements set out  by the commission. These requirements include possessing the necessary qualifications, meeting the  required  years  of  service,  and passing a competitive promotion examination however over the years the reverse is the case for most civil service particularly in cental Africa. According Nnegemi (2021) ethnic politicization suggest implies that ethnic affiliations and loyalties influence political and administrative decisions regarding recruitment, appointment and promotion.  Hence in the context of the Cameroon Civil Service, this means that promotions and other career advancements may be determined more by ethnic backgrounds than by qualifications or performance which can have profound implications for the functioning and integrity of the civil service.

Historically, Cameroon has been characterized by ethnic diversity, with over 250 ethnic groups. This diversity, while a potential source of strength, has often been manipulated for political gains. Post-independence political leaders have frequently used ethnic loyalties to consolidate power, a practice that has permeated various state institutions, including the civil service. According to (George et al., 2017), ethnicity has played a significant role in shaping political dynamics in Cameroon. The country's public institutions and bureaucratic structures have often been characterized by ethnic favoritism, exclusion, and marginalization. The dominance of Francophone elites in civil service, government, business, and the military has fueled grievances among Anglophone communities.  Cameroon's centralized governance system has struggled to accommodate its diverse ethnic groups' aspirations and grievances and calls for federalism or decentralization to address ethnic grievances have been met with resistance from the central government, exacerbating political tensions and impeding conflict resolution efforts. As noted by Adegbami and Uche (2015), despite the advantage of diverse ethnic backgrounds, it has been observed that Cameroon's civil service demonstrates managerial bias, as highlighted by Rindap and Mari (2018).

  Paradoxically, after decades of committed efforts and legislation promoting equal opportunities, systematic discrimination persists in recruitment and selection processes for employment opportunities, as indicated by studies conducted by George et al. (2017) and Shen, Chander, D’netto, and Monga (2019). Even in cases where such politicizaton is not overt, it doesn't necessarily mean that decision-makers are devoid of some form of bias. Recent studies indicate that recruitment processes within the Nigerian Civil Service are significantly influenced by factors such as political considerations/godfatherism, nepotism, the quota system, ethnicity and government discretion, as identified by Inyang (2021). Despite endeavors to address these factors, the Cameroon Civil Service continues to be marked by inefficiency and ineffectiveness in providing essential social services due to ethnic bias in promotion of civil servants.

1.2 Statement of Problem

In contemporary Cameroon, the issue of ethnic politicization in the civil service is exacerbated by the centralization of power. The central government, dominated by certain ethnic groups, has significant control over appointments and promotions within the civil service. This centralization has led to perceptions and realities of ethnic bias, where civil servants from the ruling ethnic groups are seen to have unfair advantages in career advancement. In a study by  (Amin, 2020), the implications of ethnic politicization on promotions in the civil service are multifaceted as it undermines the principles of meritocracy and professionalism, leading to a demotivated workforce. Takougang & Krieger (2018) added that Civil servants who perceive that their career prospects are limited by their ethnic background may be less motivated to perform well, knowing that their efforts are unlikely to be rewarded. 

Conversely, Fokwang (2019), ethnic favoritism can lead to tensions and divisions within the civil service. When certain groups are perceived to be favored, it can create resentment and distrust among employees. This lack of cohesion can hinder effective collaboration and communication, further reducing the efficiency of the civil service. In a study by (Nkwi, 2020), a civil service influenced by ethnic politicization is less likely to be effective in policy implementation and service delivery. This inefficiency can perpetuate poverty and underdevelopment, as the state is unable to respond adequately to the needs of its citizens. Despite extensive research on ethnic politicization and its various impacts in Cameroon, there remains a significant gap concerning the specific influence of ethnic politicization on promotions within the Cameroon Civil Service. Most existing studies primarily focus on broad political dynamics, historical contexts, and the general implications of ethnic favoritism (Bayart, 2023; Konings & Nyamnjoh, 2023). While these works provide valuable insights into the overarching issues of ethnic politicization, they often overlook the nuanced and specific mechanisms through which these practices affect civil service promotions. Against this backdrop, the study examines the influence of ethnic politicization on promotion in  Cameroon Civil Service.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

The central objectpives of the study is focused on the influence of ethnic politicization on promotion in Cameroon Civil Service. Specifically, the study seeks to:

To examine the regulatory criteria for promotion Cameroon Civil Service

To identify the extent at which ethnic bias influence the promotion criteria Cameroon Civil Service 

To ascertain how ethnic bias in promotions performance of civil servants in Cameroon.

1.4 Research Questions

What are the regulatory criteria for promotion Cameroon Civil Service?

What is the extent at which ethnic bias influence the promotion criteria Cameroon Civil Service?

How does ethnic bias in promotions performance of civil servants in Cameroon?

1.5 Research Hypotheses

Ho: There is no significant influence of ethnic politicization on promotion in Cameroon’s civil service

Ha: There is no significant influence of ethnic politicization on promotion in  Cameroon’s civil service

1.6 Significance of the study

The practical significance of this study lies in its potential to directly inform policy reforms within the Cameroon Civil Service. By uncovering the extent and impact of ethnic favoritism in promotions, policymakers can enact targeted reforms aimed at promoting fairness, transparency, and efficiency in the civil service. These reforms have tangible implications for governance and service delivery, as they contribute to a more meritocratic and accountable public administration system.

Furthermore, the study holds theoretical significance by advancing our understanding of ethnic politics, public administration, and organizational behavior. Through empirical investigation, it provides insights into how ethnic identities intersect with bureaucratic processes, thereby enriching existing theoretical frameworks and serve as a reference material for scholars in related feild. By validating or challenging established concepts related to meritocracy and bureaucratic behavior, the study contributes to the ongoing scholarly discourse in these fields.

1.7 Scope of the study

The study focuses on examining the influence of ethnic politicization on promotions within the Cameroon Civil Service. Specifically, it investigates the prevalence of ethnic favoritism in promotion processes, its impact on employee morale and organizational efficiency, and potential policy interventions to mitigate its effects. The study encompasses factors such as promotion criteria, decision-making processes, and the broader implications for governance and service delivery within the civil service. The geographical scope of the study is centered on Civil service in Bamenda, a city in Cameroon. Bamenda serves as the primary location for data collection and analysis due to its significance as a regional administrative center and its diverse ethnic composition. By focusing on Bamenda, the study captures insights from a specific context within Cameroon while acknowledging the broader national implications of ethnic politicization in the civil service.

1.8 Limitations of the study

While the study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis, certain limitations may arise, such as constraints related to data availability, access to certain regions or institutions, and the inherent challenges of measuring ethnic politicization. Firstly, limited availability of data or access to official government records may constrain the depth and breadth of the analysis. Due to the case study approach focusing on specific Civil servants in Bamenda, the findings may lack generalizability to other regions or countries. Therefore, caution will be exercised in extrapolating the results beyond the study context. More so, the study's sample selection process may introduce bias, as certain communities or demographic groups may be overrepresented or underrepresented. This could affect the validity and representativeness of the findings. Limited time and resources may restrict the scope of the study, impacting the depth of data collected and the comprehensiveness of the analysis. This could result in overlooking certain aspects or dynamics relevant to the research questions. Despite these limitations, the researcher will acknowledge and address these challenges transparently to enhance the credibility and rigor of the study.

1.8 Definition of terms

Ethnicity: Ethnicity refers to the identification with, and affiliation to, a particular cultural, linguistic, or ancestral group. It encompasses shared customs, traditions, language, and sometimes geographical origins. In the context of this study, ethnicity pertains to the diverse ethnic groups present in Cameroon, including but not limited to the Anglophone and Francophone populations.

Ethnic Politicization:

Ethnic politicization: Ethnic politicization refers to the process by which ethnic identities and affiliations are manipulated or emphasized to achieve political power or influence. In the context of civil service promotions, it involves the use of ethnic considerations over merit-based criteria to make promotion decisions.

Promotion: Promotion in this context refers to the advancement of civil service employees to higher ranks or positions within the organizational hierarchy. This process typically involves evaluations based on performance, experience, and qualifications, but can be influenced by non-merit factors such as ethnic favoritism.

Cameroon Civil Service:The Cameroon Civil Service comprises all government employees working in various departments and agencies of the state. It is responsible for implementing government policies, delivering public services, and ensuring the effective functioning of the state apparatus.