The Movement for Democracy (MpD) party in Cabo Verde has emphasized the need to transform approved reforms in the justice sector into concrete results. According to MpD's parliamentary group president, Emanuel Barbosa, this includes improving court functioning conditions, enhancing human resources, and increasing procedural speed. The MpD's stance was presented during parliamentary sessions preparing for the second plenary session of October.
The MpD acknowledges advancements in the justice sector over recent legislatures but notes persistent difficulties in accessing justice and resolving cases. Barbosa stressed that a slow justice system erodes trust in the state, leaving citizens, families, and businesses waiting. He advocated for the approved reforms to yield tangible improvements in court responses.
To achieve this, Barbosa highlighted the necessity of securing necessary means for implementing reforms, including infrastructure, human resources, and professional training. The MpD's position comes amid concerns about the justice system's effectiveness and the need for equal treatment under the law for all citizens.
The MpD's comments followed a proposal by the government to reduce magistrates' salaries as part of a fiscal proposal. Barbosa stated that the party had not yet taken a specific stance on the issue but reiterated the need for better working conditions in the justice sector. He emphasized the importance of creating a more efficient and accessible justice system.
Barbosa also questioned the timing of debating the state of justice, a topic proposed by the PAICV party four times during their opposition and now brought to parliament by the PAICV as the governing party. He suggested that while transparency is crucial in a democracy, the debate should have practical consequences and not overshadow more pressing concerns.
The MpD's concerns align with the recent increase in fuel prices in October, which has added pressure on the cost of living for families, transporters, fishermen, and small economic operators. Barbosa noted that although external factors influence the country's challenges, the government has failed to provide adequate responses.
The MpD has proposed support for transport professionals, fishermen, and vulnerable families and will continue to exercise parliamentary oversight and demand accountability from the government. The party's focus remains on addressing the population's immediate concerns and expectations.
Key points
- The MpD party in Cabo Verde calls for the implementation of concrete results from the approved reforms in the justice sector.
- The party emphasizes the need for better court functioning conditions, enhanced human resources, and increased procedural speed.
- The MpD also highlights concerns about the recent increase in fuel prices and its impact on the cost of living.
