President John Dramani Mahama is set to travel to Arusha, Tanzania, on Sunday to officially open the 2026 judicial year of the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
According to a statement signed by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Spokesperson to the President and Minister for Government Communications, President Mahama will serve as Special Guest of Honour at the ceremony on Monday.
The event will also mark the launch of the court’s 20th anniversary under the theme, “20 Years of Service in Protecting Human and Peoples’ Rights in Africa.”
The statement described the invitation as historic, noting that it will be the first time a sitting President of Ghana addresses the AU Court.
Visit Comes Amid Political Strain in Tanzania
President Mahama’s visit comes at a sensitive time for Tanzania, which has faced political unrest following its disputed October 29, 2025 general election.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan was declared winner with nearly 98 percent of the vote, a result criticised by opposition parties and some international observers.
Key opposition figures, including Tundu Lissu of Chadema and Luhaga Mpina of ACT-Wazalendo, were barred from contesting the election. Protests that followed were met with a heavy security response. While Tanzanian authorities have downplayed casualty figures, Chadema has alleged that hundreds of protesters were killed.
The United Nations and other international bodies have cited credible reports of extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances.
More than 240 people, including young demonstrators and opposition figures, were reportedly charged with treason, an offence that carries the death penalty under Tanzanian law.
At the height of the unrest, authorities imposed a five-day nationwide internet blackout.
President Hassan has since announced investigations into protest-related deaths and pledged constitutional reforms within her first 100 days in office. However, public trust remains fragile.
Tanzania also cancelled its 2025 Independence Day celebrations to prevent further unrest.
Other Developments
Despite the tensions, the country continues to manage other national issues. Authorities recently confirmed the arrest of alleged drug trafficker Ahmed Muharram in Zambia.
Dar es Salaam is also dealing with drought-induced water rationing, while preparations are ongoing for Tanzania to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
Bilateral Talks Scheduled
During his stay in Arusha, President Mahama is expected to hold bilateral talks with President Hassan before returning to Accra later on Monday.
In line with Article 60(8) of Ghana’s Constitution, the Vice President will act as President in his absence.