Rising Executive Interference Threatens Judicial Independence – Mahama
President Mahama warns that increasing executive interference and restrictions on civil liberties are undermining judicial independence and democratic governance globally, urging African nations to strengthen their institutions.
- President Mahama warns that growing executive interference is weakening judiciaries and legislative independence worldwide
- Restrictions on speech, assembly, and protest are contributing to a sharp decline in public trust in governments
- Mahama urges African nations to strengthen their institutions rather than solely measure democratic progress against Western standards
President John Dramani Mahama has sounded the alarm over growing threats to judicial independence and democratic institutions worldwide, warning that increasing executive interference and restrictions on civil liberties are undermining governance.
Speaking at the opening of the 2026 Judicial Year and the 20th anniversary of the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights in Arusha, President Mahama said institutions once regarded as pillars of democracy, justice, and the rule of law are experiencing a troubling decline.
“Judiciaries are no longer independent… We see executive overreach and a steady weakening of legislative independence,” he stated, highlighting the erosion of democratic checks and balances globally.
He also raised concerns about shrinking freedoms, noting that restrictions on speech, assembly, and protest are contributing to a steep decline in public confidence in governments.
“Restrictions are being placed on freedom of speech, assembly, and protest. There is a general loss of liberties and a sharp decline of public trust in governments,” Mahama said.
The President further highlighted how technological advances have interconnected global crises, citing the rapid spread of COVID-19 as evidence that developments in one region quickly impact others.
He cautioned African nations against solely benchmarking their democratic progress against Western standards, urging them to strengthen local institutions in light of global trends.
“The reality we see today should serve as a clear call to action,” he added.
