Category: Legal

In this article, we address the persistent challenge of justice reform in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Despite President Tshisekedi’s commitments to establish the rule of law, there are still many shortcomings in the Congolese judicial system. Criticisms of the instrumentalization of justice to repress opponents have been voiced, calling into question its impartiality. President Tshisekedi has recognized the need for reforms, but dysfunctions persist, undermining access to fair justice and reinforcing popular mistrust of the justice system. To overcome these challenges, structural reforms and strong political will are needed.

The legal export of artisanal gold from the DRC to the United Arab Emirates is at record highs, marking a significant step forward in the fight against the illicit sale of this precious mineral. Through a joint venture called Primera Gold, 2 tonnes of gold from artisanal mines in South Kivu province were exported legally in just six months. This contrasts with the previous situation, where 99% of exports were illicit. However, some civil society actors raise questions about the equitable distribution of benefits. Despite this, this progress makes it possible to fight against fraud, to reintegrate financial flows into the Congolese banking circuit and to promote Congolese gold on the international market. The DRC will need to strengthen transparency mechanisms and ensure equitable participation in joint ventures to maximize benefits for the country and its citizens.

This article highlights the security issues in Africa related to Wagner’s controversial use of Russian mercenaries. Despite Western criticism, some African countries see in Wagner a solution to strengthen their national security. However, after months of media pressure and NGO reports exposing Wagner’s abuses of local populations, some countries suspended development aid because of their collaboration with the mercenaries. A recent development could change the game: faced with the choice given by Moscow, many members of Wagner preferred to withdraw. This could provide an opportunity for Africa, but the question of Wagner’s legitimacy remains unanswered. African leaders are eagerly awaiting a change that would pave the way for a normalization of relations and a resumption of investment for development. Transparency and accountability should be the watchwords in security management in Africa.

The President of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Félix Tshisekedi, is disappointed with the functioning of the judicial system in the country. Despite his efforts, he believes that Congolese justice must face many problems. In order to remedy this situation, it plans to work with the Superior Council of the Judiciary to put in place reforms aimed at improving the efficiency and independence of the judicial system. The challenges ahead are many, but President Tshisekedi is determined to strengthen the rule of law and restore citizens’ confidence in justice.

The Ministry of Higher and University Education in the Democratic Republic of Congo sent a delegation to Kabinda, in the province of Lomami, to verify the validity of the diplomas and records of the finalist students. This initiative aims to improve the quality of higher and university education by guaranteeing the legitimacy of academic qualifications. This approach will help to strengthen the credibility of higher education establishments in the region and promote the employability of students.

President Félix Tshisekedi is committed to promoting the rule of law in the Democratic Republic of Congo, but justice reform is long overdue. The judiciary is accused of using justice for political purposes, which reinforces the population’s distrust of justice. The President recognizes the need for reforms, but despite his efforts, the rule of law remains a major concern. President Tshisekedi is counting on the Minister of Justice and the Superior Council of the Judiciary to propose rapid solutions and respect the independence of justice. Further efforts are needed to ensure independent, fair and transparent justice.

Mwangachuchu’s lawyers are withdrawing from the case, citing a lack of proper care in prison. During a hearing, the lawyers asked for a two-week postponement to allow their client to receive the necessary care, a request which was rejected by the court. This decision raises questions about respect for the fundamental rights of prisoners and the challenges that prison systems face in terms of medical care. The withdrawal of Mwangachuchu’s lawyers has important consequences for his case and highlights the problems of the justice and prison system in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Reform is needed to guarantee the basic rights of detainees and to improve conditions of detention and medical care.

The Russian paramilitary group Wagner, known for its offenses against African populations, could see a significant change as some mercenaries are allowed to join the Russian army or withdraw permanently. This decision reduces the risk of future offenses and paves the way for Wagner’s potential removal from the list of terrorist groups by Western countries. This development is encouraging for African leaders, as it could allow the resumption of financing linked to development. The situation is described by the magazine Afrique Education, known for its objectivity and its desire to tell things as they are. This development highlights the importance of ethical management of paramilitary groups involved in national security missions.

Summary: The President of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Félix Tshisekedi, admits the failure of Congolese justice under his mandate. Despite efforts, corruption, procedural delays and political interference persist. Tshisekedi claims not to have intervened in court decisions, but promises reforms in collaboration with the Superior Council of the Judiciary. The aim is to fight corruption, improve the training of magistrates and strengthen judicial independence. These reforms aim to restore citizens’ confidence in the Congolese judicial system.

The lawyers of Édouard Mwangachuchu, a defendant in a treason case in the Congo, are withdrawing from the case because of the refusal of the High Military Court to take into account his precarious health. Despite the charges against him, the defense emphasizes the importance of respect for fundamental rights and denounces the inhuman treatment inflicted on their client. Two requests for provisional release were also rejected, aggravating the deterioration of the physical health of Édouard Mwangachuchu. This case highlights problems with the Congolese justice system and the need to ensure fair treatment for all defendants.