On Thursday 8 October 2026, after the opening ceremony, the Forum on the Participation of NGOs in the 89th Ordinary Session of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights held its first working session: “Overview and Update on the Situations of Human Rights and Democracy in Africa: Sub-Regional Focal Points Reports”.
At the invitation of the African Centre for Democracy and Human Rights Studies (ACDHRS), the session was moderated by John GBENAGNON, Director of Strategy and Development and Head of the RFLD delegation. Over ninety minutes, the sub-regional focal points presented what civil society has documented since the last session of the Commission.
The focal points
- Central Africa: Marcel Mani Epee
- Eastern Africa: Walda Keza Shaka
- Northern Africa: Naji Moulay Lahsen
- Western Africa: Mélanie Sonhaye Kombate
- Southern Africa: Cathy Elando Kodiemoka
- Lusophone network: Emilio José Manuel
What the reports showed
Across the regions, the reports pointed to defenders under pressure, restrictive laws on associations and funding, internet shutdowns and the misuse of security measures. They also covered the weight of conflicts and unconstitutional changes of government on democratic life. Participants stressed that women, young people and Vulnerable Groups carry the heaviest cost of these crises, and that impunity remains the common thread wherever rights are violated.
The findings feed the resolutions and recommendations that the Forum adopts on 10 October and presents to the African Commission.
Read RFLD’s statement at the opening ceremony and our full programme in Dakar.
Media enquiries: communications.info@rflgd.org
