Arusha 24 October 2023: The African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights successfully undertook a three-day sensitization mission in the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe from 10 to 12 october 2023. The delegation, comprised Honourable Judge Imani Daud ABOUD, President of the Court, the Honourable Judge Modibo SACKO, Vice-President and staff of the Registry of the Court.
The primary goal of this outreach visit was to initiate a constructive dialogue with the Government of the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe for the latter to consider ratifying the Protocol establishing the African Court and the submission of the Declaration under Article 34(6) of the Protocol.
The delegation of the Court met with high-ranking government officials including the president of the Republic H.E Carlos Vila NOVA.
The Government of the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe undertook to consider the request by the African Court and to engage with relevant human rights stakeholders in the country on the same.
NOTES FOR EDITORS:
- The Court is composed of eleven Judges, nationals of Member States of the African Union elected in their individual capacity.
- The Court meets four times a year in Ordinary Sessions and may hold Extra-Ordinary Sessions.
- The main aim of the Court’s outreach visits is to strengthen the protection of human rights in Africa. Specifically, the aim is to make the Court better known, to initiate discussions with the Member States with a view to ratifying the Protocol and depositing the Declaration giving individuals and NGOs direct access to the Court, and to inform potential applicants of the procedure applicable before the Court.
