African court elects new [woman] president

Marc Nkwame - In2EastAfrica - Tuesday, 25 September 2012 (originally published 19 Sept)

Justice Sophia Akuffo Image: In2EastAfrica

Justice Akuffo who was elected during the court’s 26th ordinary session which was preceded by the swearing-in ceremony of ACHPR judges, had previously served as the Pan-African court’s Vice President. The terms of both the President and Vice-President of the court, whose bureau was composed of Justice Gerard Niyungeko from Burundi, the former president, and Justice Akuffo, the vice-president, had ended.

ACHPR is a continental legal institution established by African countries to ensure protection of human and peoples’ rights in the continent. The ACHPR complements and reinforces the functions of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, though until now, only twenty six (26) States have ratified the Protocol.

Judges of the court are elected after being nominated by their respective states in their individual capacities from among African jurists of proven integrity and of recognized practical, judicial or academic competence and experience in the field of human rights . . .

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