The conclusions drawn from the recent General Assembly of Justice organized by Fatshimetrie have sparked lively debates and bold recommendations. One of the flagship proposals emanating from this major event is the transformation of the High Council of Justice (CSM) into the High Council of Justice (CSJ). A proposal that does not fail to raise questions about the future of justice in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The idea underlying this suggestion of a name change stems from a stated desire to strengthen the independence of the judiciary from political authorities. By considering that the presidency of this new entity be attributed to the Head of State or, in his absence, to the Minister of Justice, the participants in the General Assembly are breathing a wind of reform and modernization into the Congolese judicial system.
However, one of the most controversial reforms is undoubtedly the one aimed at placing the public prosecutor under the direct authority of the Minister of Justice, thus risking compromising the independence of the judiciary. The issue of hierarchical judicial authority and the prior visa for any decision rendered by a judge also raises concerns about preserving the independence of judges in the exercise of their function.
Furthermore, the accelerated installation of juvenile courts, peace courts and labor courts in the provinces, as well as the proposal to grant specific privileges to bailiffs, are measures that aim to improve access to fair justice for all Congolese citizens.
The rapporteur of the Estates General underlines the need for strong political will and adequate financial resources to implement the resolutions resulting from this meeting. The Minister of Justice himself advocates for a significant increase in the budget allocated to the judicial sector, in order to improve the working conditions of magistrates and guarantee more efficient and transparent justice for all.
In conclusion, the recommendations resulting from the Estates General of Justice do not fail to raise crucial questions about the future of the judicial system in the Democratic Republic of Congo. They highlight the need for in-depth reform and strong political will to build a modern, independent and fair judicial system serving all citizens.