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On June 2, 2026, President Paul Biya issued a significant decree regarding the Superior Council of the Magistracy. This move saw the reappointment of ten out of fourteen members whose terms had lapsed over a year ago, granting them a fresh five-year mandate. However, the most pressing issue remains the fact that this vital body has not convened for a formal session since August 2020—a hiatus spanning nearly six years.
The consequences of institutional paralysis
This prolonged inactivity represents a major breakdown in the nation’s institutional framework. The Superior Council of the Magistracy is the constitutional entity responsible for managing the careers of judges, overseeing disciplinary actions, and ensuring ethical standards within the judiciary. Its continued dormancy has effectively crippled these functions, undermining the rule of law and eroding public confidence in the legal system of Cameroun.
A crisis for new magistrates
One of the most damaging effects of this stagnation involves the recent graduates from the National School of Administration and Magistracy (ENAM). For the past six years, these individuals have been unable to be formally integrated into the judicial corps. Without this formal step, they cannot take their oaths or preside over cases, leading to an unprecedented staffing void in courts across the country.
Cameroun is currently grappling with a severe shortage of magistrates. This has resulted in overwhelmed courtrooms, a massive backlog of legal files, and individuals facing extended periods of detention without trial. The lack of regular council meetings also means that vacancies created by retirements or deaths remain unfilled, further obstructing the public’s access to justice.
Administrative irregularities and lack of oversight
The absence of the council has led to questionable appointments in certain administrative jurisdictions. Judges have been placed in positions without the necessary approval from the Superior Council of the Magistracy, which is the only body legally authorized to handle such assignments. Furthermore, disciplinary processes are currently at a standstill, and professional promotions have been suspended. In this environment, where oversight is non-existent, there are growing concerns that corruption may flourish while dedicated magistrates feel increasingly marginalized.
Restoring the regular functions of the Superior Council of the Magistracy is no longer just a suggestion but a necessity. To uphold the integrity of the judicial system, it is imperative to return to the legal requirement of holding these sessions twice a year.
