The Role of Women in the Political Transition of the Bamenda Grassfields Fonship Institutions in Cameroon

Abstract

: Women play a fundamental role in traditional political transitions in the Bamenda Grassfields Fonship institutions. Like any other political entity, this institution is subject to political transition, otherwise known as succession. Unlike democratic political transitions within modern states today, political transitions in the area of study are hereditary and founded on patrilineal or matrilineal royal succession. This paper examines the place of soft power that was invisible but very crucial during traditional transitions within the fondoms. Based on a qualitative approach, this paper adopts a historical approach with emphasis on primary and secondary sources. This paper argues that women in the Bamenda Grassfields fonship institutions can be considered what political scientists have conceptualized as deep state actors; that is, they are not visible in the political scene, but the underground role they play in influencing policies and power dynamics within and without fondom is strategic and crucial. Among the several personalities and institutions that facilitate a legitimate political transition in Bamenda Grassfields fonship institutions are women. Historically, the founding myths of most Grassfields Fondoms have generally been linked to women. Far from Western feminist assumptions, women in the Bamenda Grassfields were considered sacred beings, as they were considered the source of prosperity and the perpetuation of the fonship itself. This study refutes the feminist theory that the patriarchal nature of most African societies excludes women from politics.