Written by Lisa Murimi
Malian jurist Justice Modibo Sacko has been unanimously elected President of the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights (AfCHPR), succeeding Tanzania’s Justice Imani Daud Aboud, whose term ended this week.
The election took place during the court’s 77th Ordinary Session held in Arusha, Tanzania.
Alongside Sacko, Lady Justice Bensaoula Chafika of Algeria was elected Vice President, replacing Sacko in that role.
In his acceptance remarks, Justice Sacko pledged to reinforce collaboration between the court and African Union member states to strengthen human rights protection across the continent.
“I will work closely with national leaders and justice authorities to address these violations and elevate the court’s relevance in protecting human and peoples’ rights,” he said.
Outgoing President Justice Aboud reflected on her term with pride, noting the court’s progress in promoting justice, but highlighted persistent challenges, especially the limited compliance by some member states.
“One of the main challenges remains the commitment of African states to fully implement the founding resolutions of this important institution, especially the enforcement of its judgments,” she said.
Established in 2006, the AfCHPR is a key institution under the African Union, created to ensure the protection of human rights across the continent under the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
Its 11 judges, elected by AU Heads of State and Government, serve in their personal capacity and are recognised for their integrity and expertise in human rights law.
