Civil Society Organisations: Legal Dispositions

In the Preamble of Cameroon’s Consti­ tution is the right to association. Ho­ wever, their activities are regulated by legal dispositions, notably the Decem­ ber 1990 law relating to freedom of association, whose certain provisions have been amended to meet the exi­ gencies of contemporary times. Basi­ cally, legal instruments outline general rules and regulations to be respected in the exercise of their duties. Under these statutes, Civil Society Organisa­ tions operate in a regulated environ­ ment that requires official recognition and compliance with administrative procedures. The Ministry of Territorial Administration is the supervisory au­ thority, with powers to legalise (through Senior Divisional Officers), supervise and suspend activities of these associations when need be. On the scope of activities, these social movements are expected to adhere strictly to the objectives outlined in their approved statutes and bylaws. Any deviations, or engaging in activi­ ties that disrupt public order, can result in suspensions or outright bans by the Minister of Territorial Administration. Indeed, Section nine of the December 19, 1990 law stipulates that Associa­ tions shall be administered freely in compliance with their constitution and the laws in force. This implies that they hav...