Justice
Tiken Jah Fakoly
A Call for Justice: Tiken Jah Fakoly's Plea for Equality
Tiken Jah Fakoly's song "Justice" is a powerful anthem that addresses the pervasive issue of inequality within the justice system. The lyrics express a deep frustration with the way justice is administered, highlighting a stark divide between the privileged and the marginalized. Fakoly's repetition of the phrase "Justice réveille-toi" (Justice, wake up) serves as a rallying cry, urging the justice system to become more equitable and fair.
The song underscores the perception that justice is not equally accessible to all. Fakoly points out that certain individuals seem to be above the law, while others are perpetually victimized. This sentiment is encapsulated in the lines, "Et ces gens-là on a l'impression qu'ils sont au-dessus / Et que nous on est toujours victimes" (And those people, we feel like they are above / And we are always the victims). The artist's call for justice to "wake up" is a demand for accountability and transparency, especially in cases involving the powerful and influential.
Fakoly also references specific individuals and groups who have been denied justice, such as Norbert Zongo, Mumia Aboudjamal, and Marianne Sankara. These names evoke real-life cases of injustice and serve to personalize the broader issue. By invoking these figures, Fakoly connects his message to a larger historical and social context, emphasizing that the struggle for justice is ongoing and deeply rooted in systemic issues. The song is not just a critique but a call to action, urging listeners to recognize and address the disparities within the justice system.