The rule of law in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: A pending reform
Since coming to power more than four years ago, President Félix Tshisekedi has been committed to promoting the rule of law in the Democratic Republic of Congo. However, despite its efforts, the effective application of this reform is still pending.
In a recent interview, the Congolese Head of State expressed his disappointment with the results obtained in the area of justice. He believes that the latter should be the pillar of the nation, but unfortunately notes that justice in the DRC rather contributes to its destruction. President Tshisekedi claims to have done everything possible to make his vision heard by the heads of institutions, but he deplores the lack of synchronization between them.
The Congolese judiciary is accused of using justice for political ends, in particular by carrying out arbitrary arrests to silence critical voices against the regime in place. President Tshisekedi, meanwhile, denies any involvement in these maneuvers and says he wants independent justice. However, he recognizes the need for reforms within the judiciary.
Judicial decisions, according to President Tshisekedi, often seem random and theatrical, thus reinforcing the population’s mistrust of justice. In October 2022, during a meeting of the Council of Ministers, the Head of State insisted on the need to rationalize the action of justice to strengthen public governance and the rule of law. He urged the Superior Council of the Judiciary to get actively involved in the administrative and disciplinary regulation of the judiciary.
Félix Tshisekedi instructed the Minister of Justice and Keeper of the Seals to work with the Superior Council of the Judiciary to propose rapid solutions, while respecting the constitutional independence of the judiciary. The General Inspectorate of Judicial and Penitentiary Services was also called upon to play an effective role in this process.
Yet, despite these initiatives, the rule of law in the Democratic Republic of Congo remains a major concern. President Tshisekedi, aware of his responsibility in this situation, declared that he would be accountable for the actions or inaction of justice in the eyes of the population.
In conclusion, reforming the rule of law in the Democratic Republic of Congo is a major challenge facing the country. Despite President Tshisekedi’s stated will, additional efforts are needed to guarantee independent, fair and transparent justice. Only in this way can the Congolese nation truly develop and prosper