ABSTRACT
This chapter provides a critical analysis of military abstention from politics in Cameroon. Cameroon is one of the sub-Saharan African countries experiencing the surge of political pluralism. Cameroon represents a relatively successful case of civilian control of the military in sub-Saharan Africa. The formula of political leadership in Cameroon has been autocracy. The supremacy of the president is supported by constitutional provisions which appear to erode the power base of the other branches of government. Political stability in Cameroon, so important to military abstention, may also be the result of the state’s capacity to foster economic development. The overall economic growth has been strongly influenced by oil resources. The civilian leaders have also sought to preserve the professional image and social prestige of the military. The chapter draws attention to some of the elements which may explain the stability of Cameroon, the movement toward political pluralism and military abstention from politics.
