Calls for Increased Transparency in AU Human Rights Appointments Ahead of July 2024 Elections

Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and National Human Rights Institutions actively engaged with the African Union (AU) human rights mechanisms are advocating for enhanced transparency and inclusivity in the nomination and selection processes of members to these bodies. This push for reform is particularly urgent with the upcoming July 2024 elections, which will see the filling of three vacancies at the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights.

The urgency of these calls was echoed during the 44th Ordinary Session of the AU’s Executive Council, where Hermine Kembo Takam Gatsing was re-elected as a member of the African Committee on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (Committee). While the organizations congratulated Gatsing on her successful re-election, they also emphasized the need for a more open and participatory approach in future nominations and elections.

The Committee, derived from the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child, comprises 11 independent experts. These experts are nominated by State Parties and serve a five-year term, with the possibility of one renewal. Notably, in the most recent nominations, Hermine Kembo Takam Gatsing was the sole candidate put forward.

Looking ahead, the African Court will be the next body under the AU to undergo member elections. With these elections scheduled for July 2024, the organizations have initiated a campaign to foster greater civil society involvement in the selection process. Noteworthy upcoming vacancies include the seat of Judge Ben Kioko from Kenya, who is completing his second term and must be succeeded by another male judge from East Africa. Additionally, Judges Blaise Tchikaya from the Democratic Republic of Congo and Stella Isibhakhomen Anukam from Nigeria, both ending their first terms, are eligible for re-election.

State Parties to the Court Protocol are invited to nominate new candidates for these positions, potentially including a male judge from the Central African region and a female judge from the West African region. The organizations involved hope that this call for transparency will lead to a more democratic and effective selection process, ultimately strengthening the AU’s human rights mechanisms.