AN INVESTIGATION INTO THE CAUSES AND EFFECT OF POLITICAL CLASH BETWEEN SUPPORTERS OF DIFFERENT POLITICAL PARTIES IN CAMEROON

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

Background of the study

Political confrontations among proponents of distinct political factions have been a recurring occurrence in several countries, often resulting in societal turmoil, aggression, and even political precariousness. Throughout history, there have been instances of political conflicts between followers of rival political parties, which have taken on varied shapes and levels of intensity(Fonteh & Ngeh, 2020). These conflicts often arise during election campaigns, demonstrations, protests, or in the aftermath of controversial political occurrences. Instances include the clashes on the streets between advocates of opposing political groups in the period between the two World Wars in Europe, the forceful encounters during the civil rights struggle in the United States, and the current upsurge in politically motivated violence in several African and Asian nations(Ngwa & Akoachere, 2018). Political battles may arise from entrenched social divides, historical grudges, and the pursuit of power and wealth. Colonial inheritances, ethnic frictions, economic inequalities, and ideological clashes often worsen these differences, resulting in increased political polarisation and confrontation. Various theoretical frameworks have been suggested to comprehend the origins and mechanics of political conflicts among proponents of different political factions(Uche and Obi, 2016). An example of such a framework is the social identity theory, which suggests that people get their sense of identity and self-esteem from their association with certain social organisations, such as political parties. According to this hypothesis, if these group identities are endangered or questioned, members may engage in collective action, which might include violent confrontations, in order to protect their group interests and identities.  Another significant concept is the resource mobilisation theory, which highlights the influence of material and symbolic resources on political behaviour and collective action(Bassey, 2016). During political conflicts, individuals who support rival political parties may use various resources, including financial backing, organisational networks, and media platforms, to further their own agendas and challenge their adversaries.  To effectively address the causes of these disputes, it is necessary to have a thorough grasp of the intricate relationship between political, social, and economic elements that shape Cameroon's political environment (Ogar, Ogar & Anyim, 2016). Therefore, the study  investigate the causes and effect of political clash between supporters of different political parties in Cameroon.

1.2 Statement of the problem

Political conflicts among proponents of diverse political factions provide a substantial obstacle to societal unity, political steadiness, and democratic administration in several global communities. These conflicts are evident in several ways, such as aggressive confrontations, demonstrations, and instances of deliberate destruction, often happening during electoral campaigns, public gatherings, or after controversial political incidents (Ogar, Ogar & Anyim, 2016). Although confrontations have a widespread presence and may have destabilising impacts, it is still necessary to do thorough study in order to comprehend the root causes and outcomes of these conflicts. The issue of political clashes between supporters of different political parties fundamentally questions the operation of democratic processes, the role of political institutions in managing conflicts, and the strength of civil society in the face of political polarisation. Hence, the study investigate the causes and effect of political clash between supporters of different political parties in Cameroon.

1.3 Objective of the study

The broad objective of the study is to investigate the causes and effect of political clash between supporters of different political parties in Cameroon. The specific objectives is as follows

Investigate the causes of political clash between supporters of different political parties in Cameroon

Find out the effect of political clash between supporters of different political parties on democratic process in Cameroon.

Propose strategies for mitigating political clashes among supporters of different political parties in Cameroon.

1.4 Research questions

The following questions have been prepared for the following

What is the causes of political clash between supporters of different political parties in Cameroon?

What is  the effect of political clash between supporters of different political parties on democratic process in Cameroon?

What are the strategies for mitigating political clashes among supporters of different political parties in Cameroon?

1.5 Significance of the study

The findings of the study will provide policymakers, civil society organizations, and international actors with evidence-based insights into how to effectively address political tensions and prevent future conflicts. This can include targeted interventions, policy reforms, and conflict resolution mechanisms tailored to the specific context of Cameroon.

Also the findings of the study will be beneficial to academia as it will contribute to library resources and serve as a reference for future research on the topic.

1.6 Scope of the study

The study focuses on women contributions to the political system of Cameroon. Empirically, the study will investigate the causes of political clash between supporters of different political parties in Cameroon, find out the effect of political clash between supporters of different political parties on democratic process in Cameroon and propose strategies for mitigating political clashes among supporters of different political parties in 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

Political Clash: A term referring to confrontations, conflicts, or disputes that arise between individuals, groups, or factions affiliated with different political parties or ideologies. These clashes often involve disagreements over policy issues, electoral processes, leadership, or competing visions for governance.

Supporters: Individuals or groups who actively endorse, advocate for, or align themselves with a particular political party or ideology. Supporters may engage in various forms of political activism, including campaigning, attending rallies, or participating in protests.

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