The case of lawyers banned from performing professional acts in the province of Maï Ndombe in the DRC has recently caused a stir. Indeed, no fewer than 529 lawyers have had their right to practice revoked due to their non-payment of annual fees for the year 2023. A decision that was taken by the council of the local bar association and which has sparked strong reactions within the legal community.
The president of the bar association, Mputu Mokazina, representing the bar association, spoke to explain the situation. According to him, the lawyers concerned will no longer be able to wear the gown, receive clients, or represent parties before the courts. Their status as lawyers is called into question and they are now prohibited from any professional activity. This draconian measure aims to protect the integrity of the profession and ensure compliance with the rules in force.
In addition to the lawyers who have been struck off, more than 100 trainee lawyers are also threatened with being struck off for not having renewed their oath or participated in continuing education. The President of the Bar underlines the importance of these steps to maintain quality and ethics within the profession and invites trainee lawyers to regularize their situation without delay.
This case highlights the challenges of regulation and ethics in the legal profession. The legal profession is based on fundamental principles of transparency, integrity and respect for established rules. The measures taken by the Mai Ndombe Bar Council aim to preserve these values and ensure public trust in lawyers.
In conclusion, this case underlines the importance of respect for rules and professional obligations for lawyers. Their commitment to justice and ethics must be irreproachable to ensure the smooth running of the profession and the protection of the interests of the parties involved in legal cases.