President John Dramani Mahama has called on African governments to adopt legally binding frameworks that safeguard press freedom and protect the civic rights of marginalized groups, stressing that democracy cannot thrive under fear and repression.
Speaking at the 13th High-Level Dialogue on Democracy, Human Rights, and Governance in Africa on Tuesday, July 29, President Mahama emphasized that inclusive governance and the protection of civic space are essential to building legitimate and resilient states.
The dialogue, themed “Justice, Rights, Reparation, and State Building,” convened political leaders, governance institutions, and civil society actors to explore solutions to the continent’s ongoing democratic and human rights challenges.
Mr. Mahama urged participants to champion enforceable mechanisms across member states to uphold fundamental freedoms particularly the rights to organize, protest, and participate in public life.
“Democracy cannot thrive in the presence of fear and repression. Governments must exist for all people, not just a privileged few,” he concluded.
