Regional Elections in Cameroon: functions of councillors

The election of regional councillors in Cameroon is part of the ongoing decentralisation process.

According to the constitution each region is managed by a regional council led by a President. The President of the Council is the representative of the Head of State in the region.

The Regional council enjoys administrative and financial autonomy to manage that affairs of the region.

The councilors have the duty to promote economic, social, sanitary, educational, cultural and sports development in the region.

In other countries like Canada, Regional councillors as elected officials participate in the decisions making and elaboration of the budget for the Region.

They are required to participate on at least one Standing Committees, and are encouraged to participate in any number of Advisory or Steering Committees.

New Zealand’s local government system comprises two complementary sets of local authorities: regional councils and territorial authorities (city and district councils).

The government enables democratic local decision-making and action by, and on behalf of, communities.

They seek to meet the current and future needs of communities for good equality local infrastructure, local public services and performance of regulatory functions in a way that is most cost-effective for households and businesses.

The council prepares long-term plans, annual plans and budgets in consultation with their communities.

Prepare long-term financial strategies including funding, financial management and investment policies.

The responsibility of Regional councils include;

Sustainable regional well-being.
Managing the effects of using freshwater, land, air and coastal waters, by developing regional policy statements and the issuing of consents.
Managing rivers, mitigating soil erosion and flood control.
Regional emergency management and civil defence preparedness.
Regional land transport planning and contracting passenger services.
Harbour navigation and safety, oil spills and other marine pollution.

Elvis Teke