Law No. 90/053 of December 19, 1990, on freedom of association in Cameroon, initially seen as an instrument of democratic opening and citizen empowerment, is now facing major challenges. Voices are rising to denounce its misuse by malicious individuals who, according to some observers, are wreaking havoc in society and defying the rule of law.
This law, stemming from a period of reforms and demands, aimed to allow citizens to meet and organize freely to work for the collective good. It marked the end of prior authorizations and intrusive investigations, fostering the emergence of a multitude of associations and diverse groups. However, this freedom has been exploited by unscrupulous individuals who saw it as an opportunity to enrich themselves personally, thus distorting the spirit of the law.
Complaints are regularly filed in courts and police departments, revealing scandals involving associations. Projects are abandoned, humanitarian works compromised by financial misconduct and internal struggles. Those responsible for these diversions use concealment, influence peddling, and clannism to enrich themselves, to the detriment of the initial objectives of the associations.
Widespread corruption in Cameroon facilitates these practices, with corrupt individuals using association funds to buy favorable court decisions. Public officials are also involved, yielding to pressure and complicity, which exacerbates the situation. This situation led to the suspension of several civil society organizations in December 2024 on unsubstantiated charges of illicit financing, money laundering and terrorist financing.
Despite these problems, Law No. 90/053 remains an important democratic achievement and an instrument of social empowerment. It is essential that the upright members of associations fight against abuse and preserve the spirit of the law, to guarantee its effectiveness and credibility for the future. The law on freedom of association in Cameroon is a founding text, but its application remains a constant challenge in the face of the realities of corruption and special interests.
