Africa’s democracy depends on resilient institutions – Appeal Court President Dongban-Mensem

Hon. Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, the President of the Court of Appeal, has urged African leaders to reinforce democratic institutions, maintain constitutional governance, and safeguard judicial autonomy as essential measures to protect democracy across the continent. Addressing the 2026 Goodluck Jonathan Foundation Democracy Dialogue in Bauchi, she emphasized the importance of this discussion, themed "Beyond Elections: Can Political Parties and the Judiciary Save African Democracy?"

Represented by Justice Mistura Bolaji, Dongban-Mensem highlighted the dialogue's timeliness, given the political, technological, and socio-economic obstacles faced by numerous African nations. She asserted that the continent's democratic future hinges on the robustness and resilience of its institutions. "Democratic governance's strength is perpetually anchored in robust and resilient institutions, unwavering commitment to constitutionalism, respect for the rule of law, and an enduring dedication to justice, accountability, and the peaceful resolution of disputes," she stated.

Dongban-Mensem clarified that the judiciary plays a unique constitutional role as the impartial law interpreter, constitutional order guardian, and protector of citizens' rights and freedoms. She further described political parties as the bedrock of democratic participation and leadership development, stressing that both political parties and the judiciary must collaborate to uphold democratic legitimacy and maintain public confidence in governance.

"Their distinct constitutional mandates, however, intersect in the shared duty of preserving democratic legitimacy and sustaining public confidence in governance," she affirmed. The Appeal Court President underscored the growing significance of deeper exploration of the relationship between political institutions and the judiciary across Africa.

"Engaging meaningfully on this institutional relationship is thus both timely and crucial for the ongoing progress of democracy throughout Africa," she concluded.