“The 10 magistrates acclaimed for their integrity in the Democratic Republic of Congo”
Mbandaka, November 1, 2024 – An awards ceremony was held in Mbandaka, Equateur province, highlighting 10 magistrates recognized for their integrity and dedication in the exercise of their profession. This initiative, orchestrated by the Justice Reform Support Program, aims to promote and reward those who embody the values of justice and ethics within the Congolese judicial system.
Me Guy Joseph Imbanza, head of the NGO Justice Democracy (RCN) Equateur, stressed the importance of this approach, initiated in 2023 as part of the fight against corruption. This activity aimed to identify honest personnel within the judicial sector, highlighting the continued commitment to transparent and equitable justice.
The Collectif des femmes de l’Equateur (COLFEQ), represented by Ms. Latuifa Mpumbu, has also supported this approach since 2023. The work of preventing corruption and promoting integrity within the justice system remain priority areas to ensure access to fair justice for all.
The training of young volunteers by different organizations on investigative techniques to identify honest judicial personnel was a determining element of this process. Their involvement in the field, in various districts of Mbandaka, made it possible to detect these exemplary figures of the Congolese judiciary.
Zacharie Ngandu, public prosecutor at the Mbandaka High Court and one of the winners of this award, stressed that this recognition represented a challenge and an incentive to continue efforts to guarantee irreproachable justice. He appealed to his fellow magistrates to continue to work with rigor and determination, emphasizing the requirement of excellence in their work.
This initiative is part of the Justice Reform Support Programme (PARJ2), funded by the European Union, thus highlighting the importance of strong partnerships to promote essential values such as integrity and transparency within the Congolese judicial system. This award ceremony is not only an act of recognition, but also a strong signal in favor of fair and equitable justice for all citizens of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
In conclusion, honoring and highlighting honest magistrates is an essential step to strengthen citizens’ confidence in the judicial system and to promote a culture of integrity and ethics at the heart of Congolese justice.”