The União Cabo-verdiana para o Desenvolvimento (UCID) has emphasized the need for a comprehensive overhaul of Cabo Verde's justice system, citing significant challenges in addressing sexual crimes and Gender-Based Violence (GBV). According to the party, the current system is plagued by structural and systematic bottlenecks that hinder its ability to respond effectively to citizens' needs. The UCID's concerns were presented by deputy Zilda Oliveira at a press conference.
The UCID's concerns come as the National Assembly prepares to debate the state of the justice system. The party highlights the alarming rate of sexual crimes, the scarcity of magistrates and judicial officials, and the limitations of the judicial inspection. Despite efforts to reform the justice system in 2025, including the approval of key legislation and increased funding for the judiciary, the UCID argues that these measures have not yet translated into a significant reduction in pending cases.
One of the major issues raised by the UCID is the high number of cases that are dismissed, often due to the victim's withdrawal of their complaint or insufficient evidence. This is particularly concerning in GBV cases, where the party believes that more needs to be done to support victims and ensure that perpetrators are held accountable. The UCID is advocating for increased resources for specialized services within the Public Prosecution Office and a review of prevention and protection policies for GBV and sexual abuse victims.
The UCID also emphasizes the need for a more proactive approach to preventing GBV and sexual abuse, particularly among children and young people. The party suggests that this could involve educational programs in schools, increased awareness-raising efforts, and better support for victims. Furthermore, the UCID calls for improved infrastructure and equipment for judicial services, as well as more effective functioning of the Justice Information System.
In addition to addressing the challenges facing the justice system, the UCID is also pushing for broader reforms to promote transparency and good governance. The party advocates for stronger legislation to protect whistleblowers, prevent conflicts of interest, and combat nepotism in public appointments. According to the UCID, these measures are essential for ensuring that the public interest is prioritized over partisan interests.
The National Assembly's agenda for October includes a debate with the Prime Minister on transparency and governance, as well as a discussion on the state of the justice system. The UCID's proposals will likely feature prominently in these debates, as the party seeks to hold the government accountable for its handling of these critical issues. The party's emphasis on addressing the root causes of GBV and sexual crimes, rather than just their symptoms, is a key aspect of its approach.
As the debate on the justice system approaches, it remains to be seen how the government will respond to the UCID's concerns. However, with the party's proposals highlighting the need for a more effective and responsive justice system, it is clear that the issue will continue to be a major point of discussion in the coming weeks. The UCID's efforts to promote transparency and good governance are also likely to have far-reaching implications for the country's development.
Key points
- The UCID is calling for increased resources for specialized services within the Public Prosecution Office to tackle GBV and sexual crimes.
- The party advocates for a review of prevention and protection policies for GBV and sexual abuse victims.
- The UCID emphasizes the need for broader reforms to promote transparency and good governance.
