Protect press freedom, marginalised voices – Mahama to African Leaders

President John Dramani Mahama has called on African governments to establish legally binding frameworks to safeguard press freedom and protect the civic rights of marginalised groups, warning that democracy cannot thrive under fear and repression.

Addressing the 13th High-Level Dialogue on Democracy, Human Rights, and Governance in Africa on Tuesday, July 29, Mr. Mahama emphasised that inclusive governance and civic protection are essential to building legitimate and resilient states.

The dialogue, held under the theme “Justice, Right, Reparation, and State Building,” convened political leaders, governance institutions, and civil society representatives to discuss structural solutions to Africa’s democratic and human rights challenges.

In a firm appeal, Mr. Mahama urged the forum to take concrete steps beyond rhetoric and adopt enforceable mechanisms across member states to safeguard fundamental freedoms, stressing the need for protecting the right to organise, protest, and participate as foundational principles of any democracy.

“I urge this dialogue to take a firm stand on the need for legally binding frameworks across all member states to safeguard our civic space. We must protect the freedom of the press. The voices of the youth, women, and marginalised groups must be heard and protected.

“Democracy cannot thrive in the presence of fear and repression. The legitimacy of our governments depends on the inclusion of all our people. Government must exist for all our people, not just a privileged few,” he concluded.