The Ziguinchor region deprived of an investigating judge for 4 months

Saturday 11th January 2025 05:02 AM

The National Organization for Legal and Judicial Assistance (ONA2J) expressed deep concern this Friday, January 10, 2025, regarding the prolonged absence of an investigating judge in Ziguinchor. Since the departure of Judge Diack last August, no successor has been appointed, leaving the Ziguinchor Prison and Correction Center (MAC) in a critical situation.

With more than 250 inmates, 70% of whom are awaiting instruction, the prison is facing alarming overcrowding. This situation, according to ONA2J, “results in a worrying prolongation of pre-trial detentions, thus contravening the fundamental principles of human rights,” reports Exclusive.

To remedy this crisis, the organization urges the authorities to intervene quickly. “We are launching an urgent appeal to the Government, and in particular to the Ministry of Justice, in order to create a second investigating office in Ziguinchor and to assign two investigating judges as quickly as possible,” declared ONA2J in his press release.

These initiatives are considered “essential to ensure respect for human rights, not only at the MAC in Ziguinchor, but also throughout the country,” according to the organization.

ONA2J also wanted to recognize the exemplary work of Me Seye, clerk of the investigating office. “We recognize and salute the remarkable work of the registrar Mr. Seye, who demonstrated a warm welcome and exemplary responsiveness in the management of current files. »

However, the organization remains firm in its demands. “We once again remind the Minister of Justice that Ziguinchor absolutely requires the presence of investigating judges,” insisted ONA2J.

While detainees continue to suffer the consequences of this situation, ONA2J warns of the impact on the credibility of the Senegalese judicial system. “Respect for human rights must take precedence in a Republic that aims to be exemplary,” the press release concludes.

The government, and more particularly the Ministry of Justice, is now facing increasing pressure to provide a rapid and lasting solution to this crisis.