Title: The murder of Chérubin Okende: a tragedy that reveals the flaws in justice in the DRC
Introduction :
The shocking murder of Chérubin Okende, National Deputy and Honorary Minister of Transport, Ways and Communications in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), sparked outrage and once again exposed the dysfunctions of the country’s justice system. This tragic event also highlighted President Félix Tshisekedi’s limited confidence in justice, which he considers a problematic element of his mandate. In this article, we will examine President Tshisekedi’s statements on the record of justice in the DRC, as well as the consequences of this murder on public confidence in the country’s justice system.
The disappointing record of justice according to President Tshisekedi:
In an interview recently broadcast on public television, President Tshisekedi expressed his disappointment with the record of justice in the DRC. He underscored the importance of justice in uplifting a nation, but lamented that in the case of the DRC, justice seems rather to destroy the country. President Tshisekedi also mentioned a lack of harmony between himself and the heads of institutions, thus suggesting a gap between his vision and their understanding of his mandate.
The search for the truth in the murder of Chérubin Okende:
The murder of Chérubin Okende aroused the anger and indignation of President Tshisekedi, who called on the courts to investigate and punish those responsible for this heinous act. However, mistrust of the judicial system is evident, and as part of this investigation, foreign experts, notably Belgian and South African, will be called upon to guarantee the speed and transparency of the investigation. President Tshisekedi wishes to emphasize his non-intervention in judicial decisions, affirming his desire to let justice act independently.
The need to reform the judicial system in the DRC:
Faced with the shortcomings and dysfunctions of justice in the DRC, President Tshisekedi believes that it is imperative to carry out reforms. It recognizes that justice needs to be independent and to exercise its power without hindrance. This statement highlights the importance given to the reform of the judicial system in the country in order to restore public confidence and ensure the establishment of a strong rule of law.
Conclusion :
The tragic murder of Chérubin Okende highlights the continuing problems with the justice system in the DRC and President Tshisekedi’s limited confidence in this institution. To restore this confidence and guarantee fair and independent justice, reforms are essential. Finding the truth in this case and punishing those responsible will be key to restoring public confidence in the DRC justice system. The establishment of a solid judicial system is a fundamental step for the establishment of a robust rule of law and the development of the Congolese nation