Title: Justice reform in the DRC: a major challenge for the rule of law
Introduction :
The rule of law is an essential concept for guaranteeing the stability and proper functioning of a society. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, despite the declared will of President Félix Tshisekedi, the implementation of a justice reform is struggling to bear fruit. In this article, we will explore the challenges facing the Congolese justice system and the efforts undertaken to strengthen the rule of law.
Felix Tshisekedi’s observation:
President Félix Tshisekedi himself recognizes that the situation of justice in the DRC is not satisfactory. He deplores the dysfunctions and the lack of concrete results in this area. He believes that justice, which is supposed to uplift the nation, rather destroys it. He claims to have done everything possible to make his vision understood by the heads of institutions, but finds that their objectives are not aligned. He insists on the need for reforms to remedy these problems.
Recurring reviews:
Criticisms of the judiciary in the DRC are not new. Accusations of instrumentalization of justice and arbitrary arrests are regularly made. This fuels public distrust of the judiciary and calls into question its independence. Judicial decisions are sometimes perceived as random and theatrical, which reinforces doubts about the impartiality of Congolese justice.
The desire for reform:
Faced with these challenges, Félix Tshisekedi has taken steps to try to reform the justice system in the DRC. During a meeting of the Council of Ministers, he insisted on the rationalization of judicial action and its role in public governance and the rule of law. He called on the Superior Council of the Judiciary to assume its responsibilities to regulate and discipline the judiciary. He also instructed the Minister of Justice and Keeper of the Seals to propose quick solutions.
Obstacles to overcome:
Despite these efforts, justice reform in the DRC is encountering major obstacles. Weaknesses and dysfunctions persist, compromising the population’s confidence in justice. The constitutional independence of the judiciary must be preserved while ensuring genuine impartial justice. The General Inspectorate of Judicial and Penitentiary Services plays a key role in supporting this reform.
Conclusion :
The reform of justice in the Democratic Republic of Congo remains a major challenge to preserve the rule of law. Despite the efforts of President Félix Tshisekedi to introduce reforms, obstacles persist. It is essential to regulate and discipline the judiciary while preserving its independence