Aug 15, 2008
The independence of the judiciary continues to be undermined by the executive and police officials in Swaziland.
In November 2002, the rule of law experienced a major crisis due to the Government’s refusal to recognize court rulings.
Court of Appeal judges resumed work only two years later, in November 2004, thereby providing hope that the crisis would be overcome. However, despite the drafting of a new constitution, the absence of a separation of powers (which is being monopolized by the King and his councillors), combined with impunity and a failure to conduct investigations or provide access to justice, has led to the rule of law being severely undermined.
A new Constitution, which had been in the process of being drafted since 1996, was finally adopted in July 2005.
Swaziland-Attacks on Justice-Publication-2008 (full text, PDF)
Aug 15, 2008
Nigeria’s justice system is making a slow recovery from the effects of about fifteen years of military rule, and many problems remain.
Jul 18, 2008
The ICJ drew Council’s attention to the continuous gross and systematic violations of human rights in Burundi.
Jul 11, 2008
In Chad, administration of justice is weak as the conditions in which it operates are poor.
Jul 11, 2008
Lack of judicial independence is an ongoing concern in Equatorial Guinea.
The executive has total control over judicial appointments and regulates judges’ salaries. Members of the judiciary lack adequate legal training, corruption is widespread and judges are internally and externally subjugated to the will of the government.
Lawyers continue to be vastly under-trained and the Bar Association is controlled by the Ministry of Justice. Some judges and lawyers hold both positions at the same time.
There was talk of judicial reform following a conference on national justice in January 2003 but no substantive steps have yet been taken. Political trials that lack fair trial and due process guarantees continue to take place.
Equatorial Guinea-Attacks on Justice 2005-Publications-2008 (full text, PDF)
