20th African court anniversary, Mahama champions human rights and rule of law

President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed Africa’s commitment to human rights, justice and constitutional governance, urging African Union member states to strengthen and fully support the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights.

Speaking at the official opening of the 2026 Judicial Year and the 20th Anniversary of the African Court in Arusha, President Mahama described the institution as a critical pillar in safeguarding the dignity and freedoms of African citizens.

“We need an institution that serves all but is beholden to none,” he stated. “This is why we need the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights.”

The ceremony brought together Heads of State and Government, Chief Justices, judges of regional and international courts, members of the diplomatic corps, civil society representatives and members of the legal fraternity.

A Personal Reflection on Justice

In an emotional reflection, President Mahama recounted the detention and exile of his father following Ghana’s 1966 coup d’état. His father, a former Minister of State under Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, was detained for over a year and later forced into exile after advising a military leader to relinquish power.

“Although I stand before you as a Head of State, I remain the child whose father was detained for serving his country and advising its leader,” Mahama said. “I am still the boy who learned how dangerous it can be to challenge those in power.”

He noted that such experiences shaped his deep respect for due process and the rule of law, stressing that human rights violations affect entire families and communities, not just individuals.

Call for Ratification and Compliance

President Mahama called on AU member states that have not yet ratified the Protocol establishing the African Court to do so without delay. He also encouraged countries to make the declaration allowing individuals and NGOs direct access to the Court.

“To my colleagues in those countries, I assure you that you have nothing to fear from this Court,” he said. “I humbly ask all African nations and individuals to respect and implement the Court’s judgements in good faith.”

According to him, the Court has, over the past two decades, demonstrated “fortitude and courage” in upholding the principles enshrined in the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.

Africa’s Future Depends on Justice

President Mahama linked Africa’s development prospects to the strength of its institutions, particularly independent judiciaries. He pointed to the continent’s youthful population as a major opportunity that must be supported by good governance and respect for human rights.

By 2050, Africa’s population is expected to reach 2.5 billion, representing more than a quarter of the global population.

“Can we imagine the power that we hold in our hands?” he asked, urging leaders to build nations where citizens are assured of their rights to life, dignity, liberty and self-determination.

He also cautioned against complacency in global democratic standards, stressing that Africa must define its own governance paradigm while safeguarding its cultural identity and sovereignty.

Looking Ahead

As the African Court celebrates 20 years of operation, President Mahama expressed optimism that the institution would continue to grow in influence and authority.

“Now is the time to deepen our commitment to the Court,” he said. “Now is the time for Africa to step into its greatness.”