The prominent Cameroonian lawyer and civil society figure, Shanda Tonme, has recently denounced what he calls the "great mess" surrounding Law No. 90/053 of December 19, 1990, on freedom of association in Cameroon. According to him, this law, initially conceived as an instrument of democratic opening and citizen empowerment, has become a weapon in the hands of malicious individuals who sow disorder and defy the rule of law.
Tonme, known for his role as universal mediator and president of the Independent Commission against Corruption and Discrimination (Comicodi), believes that many Cameroonians have not yet fully grasped the scope and implications of this law on their living together and their system of governance. He points out that this law, adopted in a context of demands for democratic reforms, was intended to allow citizens to freely assemble and organize themselves to work together for the common good.
However, the lawyer notes with regret that many associations are now facing scandals, embezzlement and infighting. He denounces dishonest individuals who use the law on freedom of association as a means of enriching themselves personally, to the detriment of projects and humanitarian or educational objectives. He also deplores the corruption that plagues the country and allows these individuals to buy court decisions and destroy associations.
Shanda Tonme also criticizes the involvement of public officials who, he says, give in to influence peddling and complicity, including in institutions such as private universities and health facilities. Despite these excesses, he insists that Law No. 90/053 remains an important democratic achievement and an instrument of social emancipation. He calls on the honest members of associations to fight the wrongdoers and preserve the essence of their projects.
Law No. 90/053 of December 19, 1990, establishes the principles of freedom of association in Cameroon, allowing anyone to create or join associations under certain conditions. Associations must be declared to acquire legal personality and are subject to declaration or authorization regimes. In 2020, the law was amended and supplemented.
Despite the criticism, Shanda Tonme encourages citizens to take ownership of this legal instrument to advance their projects and contribute to the country's development. He remains convinced that the law on freedom of association can be a real lever for progress if used responsibly and ethically. He is a professor at the Institute of International Relations of Cameroon (IRIC).
