The second 2026 session of the Court of Assemblies in Comoros was officially opened on October 6 by General Prosecutor Hamada Hamidou at the Moroni Palace of Justice. This session will address 21 significant cases, including the murder of Naicha Abdou Mmadi, who was killed in May. The case drew widespread attention due to the brutal nature of the crime, which involved the mutilation and burning of the victim's body.
The opening ceremony was attended by high-profile figures, including three ministers: the Minister of Justice, Mohamed Nourouddine Afraitane, the Minister of Health, and the Minister of Gender, Fatima Ahamada. Other attendees included the governor of Ngazidja Island, the Grand Cadi, various judges, magistrates, lawyers, notaries, prefects, judicial police officers, and media representatives. The event marked an important moment in the country's judicial calendar, following the first session earlier in the year.
General Prosecutor Hamada Hamidou emphasized the significance of the session, highlighting the government's commitment to tackling the rising tide of violent crimes, particularly those targeting women and minors. He noted that the law mandates three court sessions per year but allows for additional sessions if necessary. The prosecutor underscored the importance of upholding the law and ensuring justice is served without leniency for perpetrators of heinous crimes.
The prosecutor general also addressed the issue of delays in the judicial process, acknowledging the public's frustration with the pace of justice. He explained that, unlike citizens who are often driven by emotions, the justice system must operate within legal frameworks and respect procedural requirements. This includes the right to defense, the stages of case preparation, and the obligatory referral between different chambers.
Hamada Hamidou highlighted recent improvements in the judicial system, including the immediate availability of judgments and the establishment of a judge for the application of sentences. These changes aim to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the justice system, aligning it with the government's policy on crime. He called on citizens to support the judiciary's efforts and refrain from interfering with judicial decisions.
The session will run until October 14, during which 21 cases will be heard, including 19 sexual assault cases and the high-profile murder of Naicha Abdou Mmadi. The prosecutor warned against any attempts to influence judicial decisions, vowing to take swift action against individuals who try to interfere with the legal process. He emphasized the critical role of citizens in supporting the judiciary's mission to deliver justice.
The event was positively received by participants, including Me Aticki Ibn Ismael, the President of the Bar Association, who appreciated the format and tone of the ceremony. However, he also pointed out the issue of lengthy delays in case processing, expressing hope that the announced judicial policy would be effectively implemented.
Key points
- The Comoros Court of Assemblies second 2026 session addresses 21 cases, including a high-profile murder and 19 sexual assault cases.
- General Prosecutor Hamada Hamidou emphasizes the government's commitment to upholding the law and tackling violent crimes.
- The judicial session runs until October 14, with a focus on delivering justice efficiently and effectively.
