The National Assembly held elections yesterday to appoint members of the commission responsible for authorizing the prosecution of high-ranking state officials at the High Court of Justice (HCJ). Deputy Haja Resampa was elected as the president of this crucial commission.

End of Impunity

The establishment of this parliamentary commission marks a significant step towards ending impunity in the country. The HCJ will finally be able to exercise its authority. Following his election, Haja Resampa, a member of the Irmar parliamentary group, expressed his commitment to fulfilling his duties. "I am ready to enforce the laws governing the High Court of Justice. We will assess the necessary actions regarding the cases received," he stated.

Resampa emphasized that he would not make decisions unilaterally. "The decision will belong to the twenty-five members of the commission after deliberation," he added, highlighting the collaborative nature of the commission's work.

Election of Commission Members

In addition to electing the president, the Assembly also selected four deputies to represent it at the HCJ. This includes two permanent members: the treasurer Jean Bosco Rivotiana and Gabrielle Savatsarah Raby, the deputy from Farafangana. Additionally, two substitutes were elected: Narcisse Andrianirina from Mahabo and Georges Émilien Maminirina from Manakara.

Background of the High Court of Justice

Since its establishment in June 2018, following a request for the impeachment of then-President Hery Rajaonarimampianina, the HCJ has faced significant hurdles. The court has not convened due to the lack of necessary parliamentary support for pursuing cases against high officials. Many cases sent to Tsimbazaza have either been dismissed or never addressed by the commission.

The criteria for prosecuting high-ranking state officials at the HCJ are complex and nearly impossible to meet as outlined in the Constitution. Impeachment requires a public vote in the National Assembly and an absolute majority of deputies. Consequently, no impeachment proceedings have taken place at the HCJ to date. The National Assembly has become a significant barrier to accountability.

Proposed Constitutional Changes

Last year, the Committee for the Safeguarding of Integrity proposed amendments to the Constitution to address this situation, which hampers the fight against corruption. However, implementing such changes remains a challenging task.

Challenges Ahead for Haja Resampa's Team

As seen, Haja Resampa and his team have a considerable challenge ahead. The commission's effectiveness will largely depend on its ability to navigate the complex political landscape and the existing legal framework that currently limits the HCJ's operations.

The public and civil society are watching closely, hoping that this new commission will bring about meaningful changes in the fight against corruption and the pursuit of justice for high-ranking officials. The success of this initiative could set a precedent for accountability and transparency in governance, fostering greater public trust in state institutions.

Conclusion

The election of Haja Resampa as the president of the commission responsible for authorizing the prosecution of high state officials is a pivotal moment for Madagascar's political landscape. With the potential to finally bring high-ranking officials to justice, the commission's work could represent a turning point in the ongoing battle against corruption. As the team embarks on this journey, the hopes of many rest on their ability to overcome the challenges ahead and restore faith in the rule of law.

"The establishment of this parliamentary commission marks a significant step towards ending impunity in the country."

As we move forward, it remains essential for the commission to operate transparently and efficiently, ensuring that justice is served and that the principles of democracy are upheld.

L'Express de Madagascar

http://www.lexpress.mg/2024/12/poursuite-de-hauts-dirigeants-haja.html