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The recent decision of the Court of Cassation concerning Mike Mukebayi’s appeal raises once again questions about the slowness of justice in the Democratic Republic of Congo. While the appeal has been rejected since December 11, the file has still not been transmitted to the Court of Appeal for the continuation of the procedure. This situation is a source of frustration for the defendant’s lawyers, who deplore this status quo while this is a criminal case requiring speed.
Maître Christian Emango, Mike Mukebayi’s lawyer, emphasizes that this unjustified slowness accentuates the climate of uncertainty surrounding the case. While the Court of Cassation has already ruled on the appeal, the progress of the case seems blocked in a complex judicial bureaucracy, thus delaying the search for justice for all parties involved.
This case, involving accusations of threat of attack, spreading false rumors, damaging imputations and insulting the head of state, stems from statements made by Mike Mukebayi during his appearance on the program “Libre débat” on the CML13 channel. These accusations led to his arrest and incarceration in Makala central prison since May 2023.
The case of Mike Mukebayi highlights the persistent challenges facing the Congolese judicial system, such as slow procedures and bureaucratic obstacles. In a tense political context, where dissenting voices and criticism are repressed, ensuring a fair and speedy trial is of crucial importance for the preservation of fundamental rights.
This case also raises questions about the independence of the judiciary and the separation of powers in the Democratic Republic of Congo. As Mike Mukebayi remains behind bars, awaiting further proceedings, the need for judicial reform to ensure effective and impartial justice is more pressing than ever.
To be continued…