Mahama calls for broader support for African Court in historic Arusha address

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has highlighted what he describes as a landmark moment for Ghana and the continent following President John Dramani Mahama‘s address to the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights in Arusha.

Delivering the Court’s 20th anniversary address ,the first by a Ghanaian President ,President Mahama emphasised that international law and human rights must serve all people equally, not a select few.

He urged African leaders to strengthen the institution by ratifying its protocols, stressing that governments committed to the welfare of their citizens have nothing to fear from accountability mechanisms.

The President’s address formed part of his official visit to Arusha, where he also held bilateral talks with the host leader, Samia Suluhu Hassan.

The discussions were described as productive and focused on strengthening ties between Ghana and Tanzania, as well as advancing shared continental priorities.

According to Mr. Ablakwa, judges of the Court have appealed to President Mahama to consider accepting a request to serve as Champion and Chief Advocate for the institution ,a role aimed at mobilising greater political support and visibility for its work.

He said Ghana is deeply honoured by the recognition and expressed appreciation to both the Court and the Government of Tanzania for what he termed a rare privilege.

The visit is being viewed as part of Ghana’s broader diplomatic effort to reinforce its longstanding commitment to human rights, rule of law and Pan-African cooperation.