The judicial system in Togo continued to be subject to gross interference from the executive throughout 1999. Magistrates are recruited, and their career is administered, on the basis of their political allegiance rather than on professional merit.
There have been several controversies over judicial appointments as the judiciary is faced with the challenge of developing itself to represent the modern South Africa. Calls were also made during the year to increase judicial accountability.
The ICJ today welcomed the decision of the Government of Zimbabwe to grant permission to visit the country later this year in order to carry out a fact finding mission with regard to recent developments on the rule of law.
The ICJ applauds the courageous stance of Chief Justice Gubbay of Zimbabwe in continuing to preside over proceedings in the Supreme Court, despite pressure by the Government of Zimbabwe that he vacate his office by 28 February.
The ICJ is concerned by the decision of Chief Justice Anthony Gubbay of the Supreme Court of Zimbabwe to retire early from his judicial post at the end of this month, more than one year ahead of his scheduled retirement.
ICJ communication to the International Court of Justice urging the investigation of the Court’s Vice-President
Semenya v. Switzerland: joint communication on the execution of the ECHR judgment
Libya: ICJ urges UN Human Rights Council to address deteriorating human rights situation at upcoming Universal Periodic Review
Sri Lanka: Counter-terror police must cease the harassment of Tamil photojournalist Kanapathipillai Kumanan