Civil society organizations have expressed strong condemnation of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) for sending a congratulatory letter to President Paul Biya of Cameroon following the disputed October 12, 2025 elections.
In a statement released on November 5, 2025, the organizations stressed that the letter undermines the Commission’s impartiality and credibility as a continental human rights body.
They argued that by congratulating President Biya amid credible reports of post-election violence and fatalities, the Commission risks eroding public trust in its mandate to promote and protect human rights across Africa.
The statement noted that democracy across the continent is under increasing threat, citing manipulated elections, weakened institutions, and a rising culture of impunity.
The groups emphasized that the Commission should have taken proactive measures to address electoral violence and uphold human rights, rather than issuing messages perceived as endorsing contested political outcomes.
The coalition called on the African Commission to cease issuing congratulatory letters to political figures, reaffirm its commitment to the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and investigate electoral-related abuses in Cameroon, Tanzania and other nations.
Among the Nigerian civil society signatories were Stanley Ibe, Chidi Anselem Odinkalu, Ikechukwu Uzoma, Adaobi Egboka, and Ikeazor Ajovi Akaraiwe SAN.
“The credibility of the Commission depends on its ability to prioritize the rights and dignity of African citizens over political convenience,” the statement said.
The organizations warned that Africa’s human rights institutions must rise above political pressures to defend democracy, equity and justice on the continent.
