Fatshimetrie: In-depth analysis of the issue of fees related to the service of procedural documents in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Through the investigation conducted by the Haki Za Binadamu/Maniema association, a major problem concerning the fees requested by court clerks and bailiffs in the Democratic Republic of Congo was highlighted. Indeed, the practice of demanding large sums of money from litigants when serving procedural documents raises strong criticism and provokes indignation among the Congolese population.
The provincial president of the NGO Haki Za Binadamu/Maniema, Raphael Opelele, pointed out this practice, which he describes as illicit and abusive. The financial requests of court clerks and bailiffs, in the form of transport costs commonly called “mbongo ya makolo”, are denounced as being contrary to the responsibility of the Congolese State. This situation creates a real ransom imposed on litigants, highlighting a problem of corruption and exploitation within the Congolese judicial system.
The exploitation of the population of Maniema by certain agents of Justice, whether civilian or military, is strongly criticized. This practice makes access to fair justice difficult for many citizens, especially in remote areas where it is reported that payments in kind, such as chickens, goats or pigs, are demanded in exchange for the service of procedural documents.
Faced with this damning observation, it is imperative that the judicial authorities take concrete measures to put an end to these abuses. Raphael Opelele calls for firm action by the justice system to punish those responsible for this scandalous practice. In addition, it is essential to organize training and supervision sessions for justice auxiliaries, in order to ensure the proper functioning of the judicial system in the province of Maniema and throughout the Democratic Republic of Congo.
This case thus reveals the major challenges that persist in the Congolese judicial system, highlighting the need for in-depth reform to ensure access to fair and transparent justice for all citizens. It is essential that the fight against corruption and abusive practices be a priority for the Congolese authorities, in order to restore citizens’ confidence in the judicial system and promote the rule of law in the country.
In conclusion, the “Fatshimetrie” case underlines the importance of remaining vigilant in the face of abuses of power and working together to promote fair and equitable justice for all citizens of the Democratic Republic of Congo.