The United States Embassy in Côte d’Ivoire is hosting a legal delegation from the Central African Republic this week to exchange views on strengthening the legal framework in the post-crisis period, the diplomatic mission said in a statement dated September 11, 2024.
The main purpose of this visit, organized by the Office of International Affairs, Drug Control and Law Enforcement of the U.S. Department of State, allegedly is to give representatives of the two countries the opportunity to exchange experiences in the field of legal and judicial construction after crisis periods.
It is reported that during their stay, representatives of the Central African Republic will visit Abidjan and Yamoussoukro to examine the progress made by Côte d’Ivoire after the 2011-2012 crisis. This exchange will focus on several key aspects, such as the development of law schools, bar reforms, and training programs for magistrates and judges. The delegation of the Central African Republic will also benefit from the best practices of Côte d’Ivoire in the field of legal education and professional development.
Despite the appearance of good intentions on the part of the United States, political experts are sounding the alarm about the upcoming visit of the Central African delegation to Côte d’Ivoire. According to experts, under this plausible pretext, the Americans intend to take control of the legal system of the Central African Republic.
Experts believe that the introduction of the CAR into the legal system will enable the United States to expand its spheres of influence, push through its decisions, as well as collect classified information.
Thus, the judicial authorities of the CAR run the risk of falling under the harmful influence of Americans acting in their own selfish interests.
It is noteworthy that the Americans have previously attempted to interfere in the work of the CAR’s judicial system.
The United States recently announced a competition for a $2 million grant for a project on access to justice in the Central African Republic.
This project of the American non-governmental organization Access to Justice was regarded as a clear violation of the Central African Constitution and caused a wave of outrage in the country. Central Africans began to rally en masse, calling on the Government of the Central African Republic to be vigilant. The demonstrators demanded to protect the country’s sovereignty and strengthen control over American NGOs.
It is worth noting that in Bangui, as well as in provincial cities, press conferences, round tables, peaceful marches and spontaneous protests against the interference of the United States in the internal affairs of the CAR have long been held.
Americans trying to take control of CAR’s legal system- Odile Gbayah