Agbor Balla Disparages Political Influence in Judiciary, Calls for Institutional Reforms

In a strongly worded public statement issued from Buea on Tuesday, Agbor Balla described the appointment of Monique Ouli Ndango, to the Constitutional Council as a blow to the credibility and impartiality of the Constitutional Council.

By Boris Esono Nwenfor

BUEA, Cameroon – Renowned human rights advocate and leader for democratic engagement, Nkongho Felix Agbor Balla, has raised serious concerns following the appointment of Monique Ouli Ndango, a member of the ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM), to the Constitutional Council – the competent authority as regards constitutional matters.

In a strongly worded public statement on Tuesday, April 9, Agbor Balla described the appointment as a blow to the credibility and impartiality of the Constitutional Council. He emphasized that the Council, which plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the Constitution and ensuring free and fair electoral processes, must remain above political affiliations.

“Appointing a politically affiliated individual to such a crucial role raises serious questions about the Council’s neutrality and risks eroding public confidence in our democratic institutions,” Agbor Balla warned.

“At a time when Cameroonians, especially our youth and women, are yearning for genuine reform and accountability, this decision sends the wrong message. Our democracy requires institutions that are free from political influence, guided by integrity, and committed to serving the public interest.”

In a decree dated Tuesday, April 8, President Paul Biya appointed Monique Ouli Ndongo to the Constitutional Council – appointed for a six-year term, with the possibility of being renewed once.
Monique Ouli was elected to the CPDM central committee in 2011 and also served as a CPDM senator in 2013 and 2018. Hailing from the Kadey department in the East region, Ouli Ndongo is expected to serve as a judge in the 2025 presidential election.

The Constitutional Council is responsible for arbitrating electoral disputes. Section 48 stipulates that the Constitutional Council watches over the regularity of presidential and parliamentary elections as well as referendum operations. The Constitutional Council proclaims the results of these various elections. Critics, however, argue that the inclusion of party-affiliated members could compromise its independence, especially ahead of crucial national elections.

Barrister Agbor Balla, a civil society leader and human rights champion widely known for his role in democratic activism, further called for urgent institutional reforms to protect the Council from political capture.

Among his key proposals were: transparent, merit-based appointment processes that prioritize competence over political affiliation; renewed national commitment to the rule of law, constitutionalism, and the separation of powers and urgent institutional reforms to safeguard the independence of the Constitutional Council.

The timing of the appointment has also drawn scrutiny, as Cameroon navigates a tense political climate marked by growing calls for reform, particularly from the opposition, and civil society groups. Many view this move as reinforcing the dominance of the ruling party within key state institutions.

“Cameroon deserves institutions that reflect the will of the people, not the interests of a political elite. We must continue to advocate for a democratic system where justice prevails, and every citizen can have faith in the fairness of our processes. Let us rise to defend the future of our democracy,” Agbor Balla said.