Douala: Judicial Lobbying Allegations Emerge in ATOU Consulting’s Case Against CONSUPE Officials

The ongoing legal battle between ATOU Consulting and members of the Budgetary and Financial Disciplinary Council (CDBF) of the Supreme State Audit Office (CONSUPE) intensified as the case appeared before the Douala-Bonanjo Court of First Instance for the fourth time on September 12, 2024.

ATOU Consulting has filed a direct summons against the CDBF members, accusing them of exceeding their legal authority by acting as a judicial body—a function the firm argues now belongs exclusively to the Audit Chamber of the Supreme Court. If the CDBF members are found guilty, they could face significant legal consequences.

This dispute is part of a broader conflict involving prior convictions of state inspectors, which resulted in the Cameroonian government being ordered to pay considerable damages. The case has drawn widespread attention due to allegations of financial lobbying. According to insiders at CONSUPE, Minister Mbah Acha is allegedly relying on the influence of Magistrate Suh Ambe Damian, CONSUPE's Director of Administration and Finance, to sway judicial decisions. Damian is reportedly lobbying key judges in both the Douala Court of First Instance and the Littoral Court of Appeal.

These allegations have raised concerns about the fairness and integrity of the judicial process in this high-profile case, with many closely watching how the courts will handle the matter. The case also highlights possible weaknesses in the legal system, especially when it involves significant financial and governmental interests.