The Movement for Democracy (MpD) in Cabo Verde has expressed concern over insinuations made by the Minister of Internal Administration, Carlos Sena Teixeira, and Prime Minister Francisco Carvalho, regarding political interference in the Police Judiciary (PJ) during the "Shark" operation. This operation resulted in the detention of over two dozen suspects linked to a criminal organization involved in drug trafficking and money laundering. The MpD considers these statements grave and potentially undermining the autonomy of the PJ.
The MpD praised the work of the PJ and the Public Prosecution in combating drug trafficking and organized crime, emphasizing that this fight is impartial and that all suspects benefit from the presumption of innocence. The party highlighted that it is up to the courts to decide on these matters. However, they criticized the Minister's presentation of the fulfillment of warrants issued by the Public Prosecution as a demonstration of the Government's will, particularly the assertion that no process will be shelved from now on.
The MpD described as "inaceitável" the Minister's implication that the political power controlled investigations in the past and continues to do so in the present, questioning the technical and tactical autonomy of the Police Judiciary. The party suggested that if the Government has facts indicating political interference in a criminal investigation, it should communicate them to the Public Prosecution; otherwise, it should withdraw the insinuations.
The MpD also called on Prime Minister Francisco Carvalho to provide explanations to the country, particularly regarding the detention of a high-ranking official from an institution appointed by him about two months ago. The party emphasized that justice cannot be a threat when it is inconvenient and a merit for the Government when it is convenient.
The Association of Public Prosecutors' Union of Cabo Verde (ASSIMP) also repudiated the Minister's statements, demanding respect for judicial autonomy. The union stressed that it is not up to the political power or any other power to publicly assess, guide, or question the timing, rhythm, or opportunity of procedural diligences.
Prime Minister Francisco Carvalho addressed a message of tranquility to all Cabo Verdeans regarding the "Shark" operation, guaranteeing that the Government defends a "free, autonomous, and pressure-free justice." He reinforced the Government's commitment to the rule of law and the separation of powers, reiterating his conviction that justice should function freely and autonomously.
The "Shark" operation, led by the PJ, resulted in the detention of 20 individuals suspected of drug trafficking and other crimes, who were presented to the court on November 3. The operation, ordered by the Attorney General's Office, exposed an unprecedented level of infiltration in customs services, police corporations, prisons, and the public health sector. The suspects were detained outside of flagrant offense, with 17 men and three women being taken into custody.
Key points
- The MpD criticizes the government's insinuations of political interference in the PJ during the "Shark" operation.
- The party demands respect for the autonomy of the PJ and the separation of powers.
- The government guarantees its commitment to a free and autonomous justice system.
