Table of Contents

1. Introduction

2. Thematic Focus: Corruption and Justice

2.1. Systemic Corruption and its Impact on Human Rights

2.2. Deficiencies in the Justice System

3. Key Areas of Concern

3.1. Lack of Transparency and Accountability

3.2. Impunity for Corruption Offenses

3.3. Barriers to Accessing Justice

4. Recommendations

4.1. Legislative and Institutional Reforms

4.2. Strengthening Judicial Independence and Capacity

4.3. Promoting Transparency and Citizen Participation

5. Conclusion

1. Introduction

This report is submitted by the Public Integrity Center of São Tomé and Príncipe (CIPSTP) for the fourth cycle of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR). It offers a focused analysis on the pervasive issues of corruption and the resulting challenges within the justice system, which collectively undermine the fundamental human rights of the Santomean people. This submission is grounded in direct observation, case monitoring, and stakeholder consultations conducted by CIPSTP, providing a critical civil society perspective on the State’s obligations.

2. Thematic Focus: Corruption and Justice

2.1. Systemic Corruption and its Impact on Human Rights

Systemic corruption in São Tomé and Príncipe is not a victimless crime. The diversion of public funds, particularly in sectors like health, education, and infrastructure, directly violates the economic and social rights of citizens. Funds allocated for essential medicines disappear, school construction projects remain unfinished, and public tenders are awarded based on nepotism rather than merit. This reality denies citizens their right to an adequate standard of living, to health, and to education, perpetuating cycles of poverty and inequality.

2.2. Deficiencies in the Justice System

The justice system, which should serve as the primary recourse for victims, is itself plagued by significant deficiencies. These include a perceived lack of judicial independence, with frequent allegations of political interference in high-profile corruption cases. Furthermore, the judicial bodies lack the specialized skills and resources needed to investigate complex financial crimes effectively. This results in a climate of impunity where perpetrators of corruption are rarely held accountable, eroding public trust in the rule of law and state institutions.

4. Recommendations

Based on the analysis, CIPSTP urges the Government of São Tomé and Príncipe to prioritize the following concrete and actionable recommendations:

4.1. Legislative and Institutional Reforms

• Establish an Independent Anti-Corruption Commission: Create a fully autonomous body with the mandate, resources, and technical capacity to investigate and prosecute corruption offenses at all levels, free from political influence.
• Enact Robust Whistleblower Protection Laws: Adopt comprehensive legislation that protects public and private sector employees who report corruption from retaliation, and establish secure channels for reporting.
• Reform Public Procurement: Overhaul the public procurement framework to ensure transparency, competitiveness, and accountability. This should include the mandatory use of an e-procurement portal for all public tenders.

4.2. Strengthening Judicial Independence and Capacity

• Guarantee Autonomy of the Court of Auditors (Tribunal de Contas): Reinforce the financial and operational independence of the Court of Auditors, ensuring its audit reports are made public and its findings are acted upon by prosecutorial authorities.
• Specialized Training: Provide continuous, specialized training for judges, prosecutors, and investigators on financial crimes, asset recovery, and international anti-corruption standards.

4.3. Promoting Transparency and Citizen Participation

• Implement an Asset Declaration System: Mandate that high-level public officials, including politicians and judges, publicly declare their assets and liabilities upon taking and leaving office, with effective verification mechanisms in place.

5. Conclusion

Tackling corruption and strengthening the justice system are prerequisites for the protection of all human rights in São Tomé and Príncipe. A culture of impunity not only denies justice to victims but also cripples the State’s ability to provide essential services for its citizens. The recommendations outlined in this report are not merely suggestions but essential steps towards fulfilling the State’s international human rights obligations. CIPSTP calls upon the government to demonstrate genuine political will by implementing these reforms and stands ready to collaborate in this crucial endeavor.