Attacks on Justice 2005: South Africa
In South Africa, issues of the gender and racial composition of the judiciary, as well as allegations of racism within the judiciary, have come to the fore towards the end of 2004.
Attacks on justice 2005: Zimbabwe
Deteriorating political and economic conditions are compounded by the decline of the rule of law in Zimbabwe.
Attacks on Justice 2005: Tunisia
Lawyers are frequently subjected to violence as a direct consequence of criticizing the Tunisian government.
Attacks on Justice 2005: Central African Republic
After a coup d’état in March 2003, General Bozizé established a transitional government until general elections to be held in March 2005.
A new Constitution was adopted by referendum in December 2004, following a September 2003 National Dialogue and the October 2003 creation of a Truth and Reconciliation Commission. The judiciary is ineffective, unaccountable, corrupt and dependent on the executive. There is collusion between lawyers and judges, and a tribalization of the judiciary.
The High Council of the Magistracy malfunctions. The judicial system is slow, making access to justice ineffective. Impunity remains problematic as human rights violations are ongoing.
Central African Republic-attacks on justice-publications-2005 (full text, PDF)
Attacks on Justice 2005: Togo
Despite the principle of separation of powers and independence of the judiciary enshrined in the 1992 Constitution, most judges are under the control of the executive.
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