Business Corruption

According to the Bertelsmann Foundation 2010, private property rights remain problematic in Sudan. The government influences the judiciary, and the military and civil authorities do not follow due process to protect private property. Moreover, companies should be aware that the judicial system in Sudan is inefficient and prone to corruption and the courts are often subjected to political interference, as reported by the US Department of State 2009. Furthermore, the Heritage Foundation 2011 describes that business activities are hampered by a dysfunctional court system in the country.

Political Corruption

According to the US Department of State 2009, the Sudanese judiciary is corrupt and subservient to the executive, especially in cases where the state is allegedly implicated in crime. The same report states that the court system in Southern Sudan does not function in many areas because of lack of infrastructure, funding, and inefficiency within law enforcement entities.

Freedom House 2010 reports that despite the creation of the National Judicial Service Commission to oversee the appointment, approval, and dismissal of judges, the judicial system continues to be subject to political interference and government pressure. According to the same source, higher courts in Sudan are subject to political control, while special security and military courts do not apply accepted legal standards.

Frequency

The World Bank & IFC: Doing Business 2011:
- It takes an average of 53 procedures and 810 days to enforce a commercial contract at a cost of almost 20% of the claim.