John Dramani Mahama has called on African governments to strengthen the authority of the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights, urging countries that have not yet ratified the court’s protocol to do so without delay.
Speaking at the official opening of the court’s 2026 judicial year and its 20th anniversary celebrations in Arusha, Tanzania, Mahama said the continent needs an independent institution “that serves all but is beholden to none” to safeguard rights, dignity and democratic accountability.
“I call upon African Union member states who have not yet ratified the protocol to please do so without delay,” he said. “You have nothing to fear from this court.”
He also encouraged countries to allow individuals and non-governmental organisations direct access to the court and to implement its rulings in good faith.
Mahama described the court as a crucial continental safeguard against executive overreach, abuse of power and weakening judicial independence, warning that even countries long regarded as democratic models are experiencing a decline in civil liberties.
“Judiciaries are no longer independent… restrictions are being placed on freedom of speech, assembly and protest,” he said, adding that Africa must define its own governance standards rather than benchmark itself solely against Western democracies.
The Ghanaian leader said the court’s oversight role is essential to ensuring governments respect the rights and duties outlined in the African Union’s human rights framework.
He highlighted Ghana’s contributions to the court, noting that former Ghanaian Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo previously served as its president, while Supreme Court judge Dennis Dominic Adjei is currently serving a six-year term.
Mahama said strengthening the court would help protect Africans across borders as the continent’s population grows rapidly and takes on greater global influence.
“Now is the time for Africa to step into its greatness,” he said.
