CONAC Chair Rev. Dr Dieudonné Massi Gams calls for dedicated anti-corruption law in Cameroon

• CONAC Chairman Rev. Dr Dieudonné Massi Gams called for a dedicated anti-corruption law to strengthen Cameroon's response to corruption.
• The proposed legislation aims to address illicit enrichment, improve whistleblower protection, and enhance institutional capacity.
• Cameroon needs to update its anti-corruption policy to reflect current challenges and improve enforcement effectiveness.

At the level of CONAC, we strongly believe that an Anti-Corruption Law can address issues such as illicit enrichment, protection of whistleblowers and strengthen structures involved in the fight against corruption.

The Chairman of Cameroon's National Anti-Corruption Commission (CONAC), Rev. Dr Dieudonné Massi Gams, has made a significant call for the adoption of a dedicated anti-corruption law to tackle corruption in the country. This appeal was made during an interview with Cameroon Tribune following activities marking the 10th edition of African Anti-Corruption Day. The proposed legislation aims to address illicit enrichment, improve whistleblower protection, and strengthen institutions involved in fighting corruption.

Massi Gams emphasized that Cameroon needs to update its anti-corruption policy to reflect current challenges and enhance enforcement effectiveness. He also suggested granting CONAC prosecutorial powers, which would enable the commission to initiate proceedings after completing investigations.

Cameroon's anti-corruption framework is currently governed by a constitutional provision requiring the declaration of assets and property. However, despite being enshrined in the Constitution since 1996, the necessary mechanisms to enforce this requirement have yet to be established. The proposed dedicated anti-corruption law would aim to address these gaps and strengthen the country's legal response to corruption.

The call for a dedicated anti-corruption law is not isolated; it reflects growing concerns about corruption in Cameroon. The CONAC chairman's appeal highlights the need for a more robust legislative framework to combat illicit enrichment, protect whistleblowers, and enhance institutional capacity.

The adoption of a dedicated anti-corruption law would have significant implications for Cameroon's fight against corruption. It would provide a clear legal framework for addressing illicit enrichment, improving whistleblower protection, and strengthening institutions involved in the fight against corruption.

Lawyers and compliance officers should closely monitor potential updates to Cameroon's anti-corruption policy, as these changes could impact enforcement and whistleblower protections. The proposed legislation would likely require significant adjustments to existing practices and procedures, making it essential for stakeholders to stay informed about developments in this area.

Lawyers and compliance officers should watch for potential updates to Cameroon's anti-corruption policy, which could impact enforcement and whistleblower protections.

Source: Original reporting via Cameroon Tribune