The extraordinary session convened by parliament opens this Tuesday, February 4, 2025. Among the topics on the agenda is the swearing-in of new judges recently appointed to the Constitutional Court. Jacques Djoli, rapporteur of the National Assembly, announced this after the meeting of the conference of presidents and the presidents of the two chambers of parliament.
“In addition to these essential points, Parliament will address a secondary issue: the swearing-in of the constitutional judges recently appointed by the President of the Republic, the Head of State,” revealed Jacques Djoli to the press after the meeting.
Former First President of the Council of State, Marthe Odio Nonde, and Professor Aristide Kahindo Nguru will now serve as judges on the Constitutional Court. This appointment was announced following a series of ordinances read on national television (RTNC) on Wednesday, January 15, 2025.
Marthe Odio Nonde joins the Constitutional Court under the President’s quota, while Aristide Kahindo Nguru enters under the Parliament’s quota. These two personalities succeed Professor Jean-Pierre Mavungu Mvumbi-di-Ngoma and Corneille Wasenda N’songo, respectively.
Former Director of Cabinet of the President of the National Assembly, Aubin Minaku, Jean-Pierre Mavungu Mvumbi-di-Ngoma, from the President’s quota, and former national deputy Corneille Wasenda N’songo, from the Parliament’s quota, are leaving the Constitutional Court in accordance with the provisions of Article 6, paragraph 1, of Organic Law No. 13/026 of October 15, 2013, on the organization and functioning of the Constitutional Court. This article specifies that members of the Court serve a non-renewable nine-year term.
In other ordinances, the Head of State had retired Madame Odio Nonde Marthe. Thus, Félix Tshisekedi appointed Brigitte Nsensele Wa Nsensele as the First President of the Council of State, the first institution of administrative order in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Meanwhile, Moke Mayele was appointed Attorney General near the Constitutional Court, replacing Jean-Paul Mukolo Nkokesha, who was appointed Attorney General near the Council of State.
Now, let’s delve into the details of the extraordinary session and the significance of the swearing-in of the new judges at the Constitutional Court.
Extraordinary Session Convened by Parliament
The extraordinary session called by parliament commencing on February 4, 2025, marks a pivotal moment in the legal landscape of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This session, which has garnered significant attention and anticipation, will address crucial matters that are set to shape the future of the nation’s judiciary system. Among the key items on the agenda is the swearing-in of newly appointed judges to the esteemed Constitutional Court, a process that carries immense weight and implications for the country’s legal framework.
Significance of New Constitutional Judges
The appointment of Marthe Odio Nonde and Professor Aristide Kahindo Nguru as judges to the Constitutional Court signifies a changing of the guard in the highest echelons of the judiciary. With their wealth of experience and expertise, these esteemed individuals are poised to bring a fresh perspective and uphold the principles of justice, fairness, and constitutional law. As they step into their roles, they inherit the responsibility of safeguarding the constitution and ensuring that the rights and freedoms of all citizens are protected.
In a symbolic passing of the torch, the departure of outgoing members, including Jean-Pierre Mavungu Mvumbi-di-Ngoma and Corneille Wasenda N’songo, underscores the cyclical nature of institutional renewal and the continuous evolution of the legal system. The transition from old to new not only reflects the commitment to upholding the rule of law but also highlights the resilience and adaptability of the judiciary in responding to the changing needs of society.
As the swearing-in ceremony unfolds, it serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring values of integrity, impartiality, and dedication that are essential to the functioning of a robust judicial system. The solemn oath taken by the new judges signifies their solemn commitment to uphold the constitution, dispense justice fairly, and protect the rights of all individuals under the rule of law. This momentous occasion encapsulates the essence of the judiciary’s role in upholding democracy, ensuring accountability, and promoting the common good.
In conclusion, the swearing-in of new judges at the Constitutional Court during the extraordinary session of parliament represents a significant milestone in the legal realm of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. As the nation embarks on this new chapter in its judicial history, the appointment of these distinguished individuals underscores the importance of upholding the rule of law, protecting fundamental rights, and advancing the cause of justice for all. The legacy of the outgoing members is honored, while the promise of the incoming judges heralds a future of progress, integrity, and accountability.