Reform of Justice in the Democratic Republic of Congo: President Tshisekedi’s challenges for independent and accessible justice
Since coming to power in 2019, the President of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Félix Tshisekedi, has repeatedly expressed his desire to reform the country’s judicial system. Its objective: to establish a solid rule of law and independent justice accessible to all Congolese. However, despite his efforts, it seems that the road to this reform is strewn with pitfalls.
In a recent interview, President Tshisekedi expressed his frustration with the progress made in the area of justice. He lamented the fact that despite his many attempts to get his vision across and gain institutional support, he feels he is not on the same page. He also denied any interference in the arrests or releases of people, saying he wanted the judiciary to remain independent.
Yet criticism of the judiciary persists. Judicial decisions that seem arbitrary and a theatricalization of justice fuel the public’s mistrust of the judicial system. According to President Tshisekedi, it is imperative to carry out reforms in order to remedy these dysfunctions which undermine confidence between the people and justice.
In this context, President Tshisekedi called on the Superior Council of the Judiciary to play its role of administrative and disciplinary regulator of the judiciary. He also instructed the Minister of Justice and Keeper of the Seals to work in collaboration with the Superior Council of the Judiciary to propose rapid and effective solutions.
The reform of justice in the Democratic Republic of Congo is therefore a major challenge for President Tshisekedi. An independent and accessible judiciary is essential to establish the rule of law in the country. However, to achieve this, it will be necessary to overcome the obstacles and resistance that stand in the way of this reform.
In conclusion, despite the efforts of President Tshisekedi, the reform of justice in the Democratic Republic of Congo is encountering difficulties. The theatricalization of justice, arbitrary decisions and the mistrust of the population are all challenges to overcome. However, the President remains determined to establish an independent justice system accessible to all Congolese, with the aim of consolidating the rule of law in the country