President John Dramani Mahama has called on African leaders to reinforce their dedication to international law and human rights, emphasising that justice systems must serve all citizens, not just a privileged few.
Speaking in Arusha during the 20th anniversary of the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights, President Mahama became the first Ghanaian head of state to formally address the continental judicial body.
According to a statement shared by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, on Tuesday, March 3, the President urged African Heads of State to ratify the court’s protocols. He stressed that leaders committed to the welfare of their people should welcome continental human rights oversight.
“International law and human rights frameworks must operate fairly and equitably, ensuring protection and justice for all citizens across the continent,” he said.
Before addressing the court, President Mahama held bilateral talks with Tanzania’s President, Samia Suluhu Hassan, which were described as fruitful in strengthening Ghana–Tanzania relations.
In a notable development, judges of the African Court requested that President Mahama consider taking on the role of Champion and Chief Advocate for the institution, a position that would allow him to play a key role in promoting the court’s mandate across Africa.
Minister Ablakwa described the recognition as a rare honour for Ghana, expressing gratitude to both the court and the Government of Tanzania for the acknowledgement.
