President Daniel Chapo on Tuesday called for stronger public institutions and equal application of the law for all citizens, warning that corruption, impunity, and unequal treatment risk undermining public confidence in the state.
The president made the remarks in Maputo at the opening of the International Seminar on Constitutional Justice and the Global Rule of Law, organised by Mozambique's Constitutional Council.
Chapo argued that consolidating the rule of law requires robust institutions, respect for the constitution, and a guarantee that rights enshrined in law translate into concrete improvements in people's daily lives. "There is no sustainable democracy without the rule of law. There is no rule of law without strong institutions. And there are no truly strong institutions without respect for the constitution," he said.
The head of state cautioned that citizens' trust in institutions is undermined when there is a perception that the law is applied differently depending on a person's economic, social, or political standing. He identified impunity for acts of corruption, delays in judicial proceedings, and the prevalence of private interests over the public good as key factors that weaken institutional integrity.
Chapo called for courts that are more accessible, efficient, and impartial, arguing that justice must be close to citizens and deliver decisions in a timely manner. He also addressed challenges posed by digital transformation and artificial intelligence, particularly in the areas of privacy, fundamental rights, electoral processes, and the spread of disinformation.
The president urged citizens — and young people in particular — to develop a deeper understanding of the constitution, their rights, and their obligations, arguing that the country's founding law should be present in everyday life rather than remain a purely legal document. The seminar brings together magistrates, jurists, academics, and researchers from several countries to advance debate on constitutional justice, the strengthening of democratic institutions, and the rule of law.
Source: Diário Económico
Original article: https://www.diarioeconomico.co.mz/2026/09/01/desenvolvimento-2/pr-defende-lei-igual-para-todos-e-instituicoes-mais-fortes/
