Togo: Drawing up action plans to combat corruption in the judiciary
Actors involved in the fight against corruption and impunity within the judicial system have scheduled a meeting on May 7th and 8th, 2024 in Lomé, Togo to define a collective action plan.
This initiative stems from the Global Solidarity for Impoverished People and Detainees (SMPDD), in partnership with the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), aiming to strengthen collaboration among various stakeholders including representatives from the NHRC, the High Authority for the Prevention and Fight against Corruption and Related Offenses (HAPLUCIA), the bar association, civil society, as well as justice professionals, all engaged in combating these scourges.
Specifically, the goal is to identify the causes and negative effects of corruption in the judicial system and its impact on torture.
Participants will share best practices in identifying, preventing, and sanctioning acts of corruption.
Discussions will also focus on the interactions between the National Prevention Mechanism, HAPLUCIA, and judicial authorities in preventing and combating torture in Togo.
Four sessions will structure these deliberations: 1) Introduction to corruption and torture in the judicial system; 2) Prevention and identification of corruption risks in the judicial system; 3) Investigations and prosecutions; 4) Link between corruption and torture: the role of prevention and combat mechanisms.
«Despite the progress made in combating corruption, this scourge remains a reality in Togo that must be tackled. Eradicating this phenomenon is essential to protect human rights, as the independence and impartiality of justice are the pillars of a system that respects the rule of law», stated Kadanga Tchalim, the Director of Cabinet at the Ministry of Justice.
By that, he is expressing hope that this workshop will lead to the creation of a robust strategy and partnership among stakeholders to combat torture and corruption in the country.
Abalo TCHAKONDO
