New attorney-general takes office

Maputo, 10 Dec (AIM) – Mozambican President Filipe Nyusi on Monday swore into office Américo Letela as the new Attorney-General, challenging him to strengthen the justice system.

Speaking at the ceremony, Nyusi said Letela must use the knowledge he had acquired as a senior prosecutor to implement qualitative changes in the institution he will now lead.

“This ceremony, which takes place at a peculiar moment for our beloved country, symbolizes hope and renewal in a time of challenges that demand unity, determination and courage from all of us as a nation. The crucial role of the administration of justice is to defend the rights and freedoms of citizens”, he said.

According to Nyusi, the institution’s current challenges require ongoing training for prosecutors and investigators, as well as investment in human, technical and technological resources.

“We are certain that the newly appointed Attorney General will lend his knowledge and the necessary skills to act as an agent of qualitative change”, he said.

The President also challenged Letela to “promote human rights, the protection of vulnerable people, minors, and the disabled, and the defence of collective interests, and public probity”.

Nyusi also demanded “the accountability of those involved in crimes of corruption, money laundering, and terrorist financing and the effective recovery of assets in criminal hands.”

Nyusi believes that the continuous training of professionals from the National Criminal Investigation Service (SERNIC) is crucial to the effectiveness of these actions.

“Training and ongoing capacity building are key elements in preventing and combating crime”, he added.

He also appreciated the work of Letela’s predecessor, Beatriz Buchili, claiming that “her determination and the commitment of her team were fundamental in strengthening the Attorney-General’s Office and facing the complex challenges that arose during her tenure.”
(AIM)
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