Judicial Organization and Institutions in Cameroon: A Tripartite Classification

Abstract

Justice is a service open to the public. It is thus arranged, like any structure that renders public service, in a manner that whoever seeks for it receives appropriate attention. The setting up and organization of judicial institutions is premised on the fore said. The classification of the judicial system in Cameroon is shrouded with a bleak and opaque view that one tends to ponder on the clear cut strata for the administration of justice in Cameroon. Litigants sometimes find difficulties in identifying which court is competent to handle their matters in the face of complaints. More so, the fact that certain courts preclude the ordinary man from bringing an action makes the whole scenario more cumbersome for a common man to comprehend. Judicial and administrative authorities need to be guided on the nature of cases entertained as well as be acquainted with the competent courts to seize for such matters. The study therefore has as objectives to dissect the justice system of Cameroon so as to give a clearer view for litigants who desire to have their issues addressed by these judicial organs. In a bid to achieve this objective, the author has adopted a doctrinal methodology consisting of primary and secondary data. At the end of the research, findings shows that though attempts have been made to classify courts in Cameroon, there is still need to adopt a more compressive and facilitative classification so as to give a clearer picture with regards to competence and jurisdiction.