African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights to choose new leaders
According to a statement from the Court, the elections will take place during the opening of its 77th ordinary session, scheduled to run from June 2 to June 27, 2025, in Arusha.
The African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights (AfCHPR), headquartered in Arusha, is preparing to elect a new President and Vice-President.
According to a statement from the Court, the elections will take place during the opening of its 77th ordinary session, scheduled to run from June 2 to June 27, 2025, in Arusha.
As the Court embarks on this significant transition in leadership, the focus remains on enhancing the effectiveness and visibility of continental human rights mechanisms.
The upcoming elections are expected to bring in new judicial leadership that will steer the Court’s agenda for the coming years, particularly in reinforcing access to justice and promoting adherence to the rule of law across African states.
Meanwhile, the joint retreat with the African Commission offers an opportunity for both organs to reflect on challenges, share strategies, and align their approaches to handling human rights matters more efficiently.
The collaboration underscores a shared commitment to strengthening institutional synergy in addressing violations and promoting accountability.
The Ogiek case, which will be heard publicly on May 28, remains one of the Court’s landmark matters.
It involves allegations of forced evictions of the Ogiek community from their ancestral land in the Mau Forest by the Kenyan government, raising critical questions about indigenous rights, environmental protection, and state obligations under international law.
On May 29, the delivery of seven separate decisions will mark another key milestone for the Court, reflecting its ongoing role in shaping jurisprudence on human and peoples’ rights across the continent.
Public engagement continues to be a cornerstone of the Court’s operations, with both the hearing and judgment announcements open to observers, legal practitioners, civil society groups, and ordinary citizens who wish to witness the Court’s work firsthand.
As the African Court continues to grow in stature and impact, its sessions serve as a powerful reminder of the continent's collective resolve to uphold justice, equality, and fundamental freedoms for all.
