AN INVESTIGATION INTO THE EFFECT OF JOB RACKETEERING ON LOCAL GOVERNMENT ADMINISTRATION IN CAMEROON

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

Background of the study

Local government administrations are fundamental to governance arrangements in several nations, since they play a pivotal role in providing vital services, overseeing public resources, and advocating for the interests of individuals at the local level. Nevertheless, local governments often encounter obstacles associated with corruption, incompetence, and maladministration, which have the potential to undermine their efficacy and legitimacy. An omnipresent problem that has gained growing awareness in recent years is the practice of employment racketeering inside local government administrations. Job racketeering is the act of engaging in illegal methods to manipulate job prospects, appointments, promotions, and transfers inside public institutions for personal profit or political benefit. This tendency is worrisome because it not only undermines the fair principles of hiring and advancement based on merit, but it also has extensive consequences for government, the provision of services, and societal fairness. The widespread occurrence and significant influence of job racketeering on local government administration are clearly observable in many global situations. In Nigeria, there are several claims of extensive nepotism, favouritism, and bribery in the recruiting and promotion procedures within local government councils (Adewale & Ojo, 2019). In India, the practice of the "transfer industry" has grown deeply rooted in local administrations, where officials often engage in the purchase or lobbying for highly profitable job assignments (Krishnan, 2020). Job racketeering has effects that go beyond only administrative anomalies. It has significant implications for the operation and integrity of local government organisations. Job racketeering fundamentally undermines the concepts of justice, transparency, and equal opportunity in public employment, hence fostering a culture of patronage and cronyism(Lomer, 2018). Not only does this undermine the confidence that the public has in government institutions, but it also denies capable persons job opportunities based on their skills and abilities. Furthermore, the negative consequences of employment racketeering also impact the provision of public services and the general development of local communities. When appointments and promotions are determined on political affiliations rather than skills and experience, it often results in the placement of inept or unqualified people in crucial positions. As a result, this negatively affects the efficiency and effectiveness of providing services, hinders the progress of development projects, and creates an environment of inefficiency and mismanagement (Murray, 2017). Moreover, job racketeering intensifies disparities and sustains social marginalization by privileging certain groups or people according to their associations rather than their skills or qualifications. This not only exacerbates pre-existing societal differences but also hinders efforts to foster inclusiveness, diversity, and social justice within local government administrations.Although job racketeering has substantial ramifications for local government administration, there is a lack of extensive study on this topic. Therefore, the researcher sought to investigate the effect of job racketeering on local government administration in Cameroon.

Statement of the problem

Local government administrations are crucial components of the governance framework in many countries, acting as the main intermediary between the government and residents at the local level. Nevertheless, local governments often face structural obstacles that hinder their efficacy and legitimacy, despite their vital role in providing important services, managing public resources, and reflecting community interests. An increasingly prominent topic that has emerged in recent years is the widespread problem of employment racketeering inside local government administrations(Tangwa, 2015).  Job racketeering is engaging in illegal activities to manipulate job prospects, appointments, promotions, and transfers inside governmental institutions for personal profit or political benefit. This phenomena erodes the values of meritocracy, justice, and openness in public employment, giving rise to a culture of favouritism, nepotism, and corruption within local government agencies. Job racketeering continues to be a significant and prevalent issue in several places globally, despite its negative impact on governance, service delivery, and social fairness(Nanfuka & Kiwuwa, 2020). The pervasiveness of job racketeering inside local government administrations gives rise to various urgent inquiries and apprehensions.  Hence, the study investigate the effect of job racketeering on local government administration in Cameroon.

1.3 Objective of the study

The broad objective of the study is to investigate the effect of job racketeering on local government administration in Cameroon. The specific objectives is as follows

To analyze the prevalence of job racketeering within local government administrations in Cameroon.

To identify factors contributing to job racketeering in local government in Cameroon.

To assess the impact of job racketeering on the effectiveness of local government services in Cameroon.

Propose strategies to combat job racketeering and improve local government administration in Cameroon

1.4 Research Questions

The following questions have been prepared for the following

What is the prevalence of job racketeering within local government administrations in Cameroon?

What are the factors contributing to job racketeering in local government in Cameroon?

What is the impact of job racketeering on the effectiveness of local government services in Cameroon?

What are the proposed strategies to combat job racketeering and improve local government administration in Cameroon?

1.5 Significance of the study

The findings of the study will be significant to the government as it will reveal the cause of job racketeering and proffer recommendation towards curbing the menance. It will also inform policymakers and local government leaders about the need for stronger anti-corruption measures and more transparent hiring practices. This could lead to the development and implementation of policies aimed at curbing job racketeering and promoting fairness in employment.

In addition, the findings of the study will be significant to the academic community and also add to the body of knowledge on job racketeering and its effects on local government administration. It will further serve as a reference for future research on similar issues within Cameroon or other countries.

1.6 Scope of the study

The study focuses on the effect of job racketeering on local government administration in Cameroon. Empirically, the study will analyze the prevalence of job racketeering within local government administrations in Cameroon,  identify factors contributing to job racketeering in local government in Cameroon, assess the impact of job racketeering on the effectiveness of local government services in Cameroon and Propose strategies to combat job racketeering and improve local government administration in Cameroon.

Geographically, the study is delimited to Beau Municipal, Cameroon.

1.7 Limitation of the study

Like in every human endeavour, the researchers encountered slight constraints while carrying out the study. Insufficient funds tend to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature, or information and in the process of data collection (internet, questionnaire, and interview), which is why the researcher resorted to a moderate choice of sample size. More so, the researcher will simultaneously engage in this study with other academic work. As a result, the amount of time spent on research will be reduced.

1.8 Definition of terms

Job Racketeering: Job racketeering refers to the practice of manipulating or exploiting hiring and employment processes for personal gain or corrupt purposes. This can include bribery, nepotism, cronyism, and favoritism in the selection, hiring, and promotion of employees.

Local Government Administration: Local government administration encompasses the organization and management of public services and local governance at the municipal or local level. This includes functions such as public works, education, healthcare, and other services provided to residents within a local government area.

Prevalence: In the context of this study, prevalence refers to the extent to which job racketeering occurs within local government administration in Cameroon. This could be measured by the frequency and distribution of incidents across different local government sectors.

Employee Morale: Employee morale refers to the overall mood, attitude, and level of satisfaction among employees within an organization. It can affect productivity, motivation, and commitment to work.

Productivity: Productivity is a measure of the efficiency and effectiveness with which employees perform their tasks. It encompasses the quality and quantity of work output in relation to the resources utilized.