Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama has called for strengthening the effectiveness of the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights and granting direct access to the court for citizens and non-governmental organizations.
Mahama made the appeal on Sunday, March 2, while officially opening the 2026 judicial year of the Court in Arusha.
The ceremony brought together legal experts, government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, and representatives of regional institutions to reaffirm Africa’s commitment to justice, accountability and the rule of law.
“Over the past two decades, the African Court has proven its ability to recalibrate our moral compass,” Mahama said, adding that the institution should aim to become a leading international judicial body by its 40th anniversary.
He urged African states to respect and implement the Court’s judgments in good faith and to make the necessary declaration allowing individuals and NGOs direct access to the continental jurisdiction.
“I humbly ask all nations and all Africans to respect and implement the Court’s decisions in good faith and to make the declaration allowing this access,” he stated.
The Ghanaian leader stressed the need to strengthen continental institutions, protect judicial independence, and uphold the dignity of every African without fear or favor.
The opening of the 2026 judicial year signals a renewed commitment by African states to consolidate the rule of law, defend the mandate of the Court, and promote a shared vision of justice and human rights across the continent.
