By Amoako Kwame
The President John Dramani Mahama has called on African leaders to be democratic and prevent the executive arm of government from encroaching on other branches of governance.
Speaking at the launch of the 2026 Judicial Year of African Court on Human Rights in Arusha, Tanzania the President emphasized that abusing of executive powers weakens democracy
“Judiciaries are no longer independent, and executive overreach is weakening legislative authority “he said
The President also explained the importance of the court’s role in enforcing international human right instrument.
“We need that kind of oversight, so that we remain observant and respectful of the rights and duties enumerated in the articles of the Banjul Charter, to which all the continent nations are signatories” he stated
The President further urged African leaders to support the African Court on Human Rights.
“We must empower the court to be the institution that stands as God over these ideals, protecting and preserving our greatest inheritance.”
He also recalled old African regimes that committed crimes against humanity and indicated justice would’ve prevailed if the court was present then.
“If the court had existed earlier, it would have secured justice against apartheid criminals and oppressive dictators”
