African Union vi. vii. Existence of financial independence of the judiciary, in terms of resource allocation free of encumbrances by the Executive. Any other relevant circumstances. QUESTION 3: How would you rate the independence and effectiveness of the legislative body? INDICATORS: i. ii. iii. iv. v. vi. The constitution or any other legislation provides adequate protection for the independence of the legislature. Instances where parliament has exercised its constitutional power successfully in checking executive abuse and holding the State accountable - (such as power to amend legislation, power of impeachment, Power of rejection of executive appointments, passing vote of no confidence) An assessment of the extent to which the legislature is responsive and accountable to the public in between elections. Evidence of legal provisions and resource allocation establishing the independence of the legislature; including but not limited to the initiating of bills, proposing amendments (including amendments to the budget/all revenues and expenditure, set its own budget, require reporting on actual revenues and expenditures), and opportunity to question executive action An assessment of the independence of the legislature and give details of reports to any official assessment; A description of measures taken to strengthen and sustain the capacity of parliament and/or parliamentarians (training, evaluation, available reports, facilities for communication and analysis). Objective 3: Prevention and Management of Intra and Inter-State Conflicts This objective focuses on preventing and reducing intra- and inter-state conflicts with particular attention to the extent to which the country under review strives to sustain peace and security within its borders and to contribute to peace and stability in its neighbourhood. QUESTION 1: What conditions generate conflict in your country? INDICATORS i. Describe/expand on any of the following factors, focusing on if they have been potential sources of conflict in your country, impacting negatively on your country‟s peace, stability and security? Inequality among groups and/or regions; Competition for natural resources e.g. land; Ethnic, religious and other diversities; Illicit arms trade; Unfair exploitation of natural resources e.g. oil & mineral; Refugees and internally displaced persons; Pre, during and post electoral violence; Others 17