The Power and Peril of the Opposition in Transition Societies of Africa after 1990: Cameroon’s Experience

The study argues that democratic transitions represent key political moments in the political life of emerging opposition. These are moments when the political reputation and legitimacy of the pre-established regime is likely to plummet giving a political opportunity for the opposition to emerge and use appropriate political skills to threaten the very foundation and survival of undemocratic regimes.  Using the example of the State of Cameroon from the late 80s to early 90s, it finds that three key factors contributed to the emergence of Cameroon’s opposition. First, a context favourable to democracy; second, the ability of the opposition to develop appropriate political capabilities; and third a political behaviour that is most attractive to (potential) supporters. This finding suggests that the power of the opposition is not only limited to the personal abilities and capabilities of the individual activist but also the ability to take advantage of the context in which democracy is emerging. This conclusion is drawn from an observation of the circumstances and political action of Cameroon’s pioneer opposition leader after 1990 herein named John Fru Ndi.