Arusha, 23 February 2026: The African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights (AfCHPR) today elected Honourable Justice Blaise Tchikaya of the Republic of Congo (Brazzaville) as its new President to replace Honourable Justice Modibo Sacko.
Honourable Justice Tchikaya will serve the remainder of the term of the outgoing President who was elected on 2 June 2025 for a term of two (2) years. Hon. Justice Dr. Modibo Sacko will continue serving on the Bench as a Judge of the Court.
In his address, the outgoing President, Honourable Justice Sacko expressed his sincere gratitude to his fellow Honourable Judges, the Registry, staff members and all stakeholders for their steadfast support and cooperation during his tenure at the helm of the Court.
In his acceptance remarks, the newly elected President said he was deeply honoured with the new responsibility.
“I assume this responsibility with a profound sense of duty to uphold the mandate of the Court. As we prepare for the launch of the commemoration of the 20th Anniversary of the Court, I look forward to working closely with my fellow Judges, the Registry, staff and all stakeholders to reflect on the Court’s achievements and address existing challenges as we further strengthen the Court’s role in the protection of human and peoples’ rights across the continent,” he said.
The newly elected President expressed on behalf of the Court, appreciation to the outgoing President Justice Sacko for his leadership and service during his tenure as President.
The new Bureau now comprises Honourable Justice Blaise Tchikaya as President and Honourable Lady Justice Bensaoula Chafika of Algeria, as Vice President of the Court.
The full profiles of the new President and the Vice President are available via the links below:
NOTES FOR EDITORS:
- The African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights (AfCHPR) is a continental court established by African Union Member States to ensure the protection of human and peoples’ rights in Africa.
- The Court is an organ of the African Union and it complements and reinforces the functions of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
- 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.
Further information on the Court can be obtained from www.african-court.org
Telephone: +255 272 510 510
For further inquiries: Ms Grace Wakio Kakai, Deputy Registrar – Registrar@african-court.org
For media inquiries: Ms Chipiliro Kansilanga Ngue, Senior Information & Communication Officer and Head of Communication Unit – Chipiliro.Kansilanga@african-court.org
