Leadership shake-up at African Court as Justice Sacko resigns, Tchikaya takes helm
Justice Modibo Sacko leaves observers searching for answers in the wake of his abrupt departure.
WEDNESDAY February 25, 2026
By Patty Magubira
The Tranquillity News Reporter, Tanzania
In a move that has sent ripples through the continent’s legal community, Justice Modibo Sacko has unexpectedly resigned as president of the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights (AfCHPR).
The resignation comes just eight months into his two-year term, leaving observers searching for answers in the wake of his abrupt departure.
The court announced the leadership change on Tuesday, confirming that Justice Blaise Tchikaya of the Republic of Congo, Brazzaville, has been elected to serve out the remainder of Sacko’s term.
Justice Sacko, who was elected to the court’s highest office on June 2, 2025, will remain on the bench as a regular judge.
However, the official statement from the Arusha-based court offered no explanation for why he stepped down prematurely.
In a brief farewell message, the outgoing president expressed his sincere gratitude to his colleagues and staff for their support, maintaining a tone of professional decorum despite the sudden nature of his exit.
A veteran takes the gavel
The newly elected President, Justice Tchikaya, is no stranger to the inner workings of the African Union’s judicial arm.
A seasoned legal scholar and practitioner, Tchikaya previously served as the court’s vice president from 2021 to 2023.
Upon his election, Tchikaya signalled a focus on institutional stability as the court approaches a major milestone.
“I assume this responsibility with a profound sense of duty,” stated Tchikaya, adding:
“As we prepare for the launch of the commemoration of the 20th Anniversary of the court, I look forward to working closely with all stakeholders to reflect on our achievements and address existing challenges.”
As we prepare for the launch of the commemoration of the 20th Anniversary of the court, I look forward to working closely with all stakeholders to reflect on our achievements and address existing challenges.” Justice Blaise Tchikaya, African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights President.
Tchikaya will lead a refreshed Bureau alongside Lady Justice Bensaoula Chafika of Algeria, who serves as Vice President.
Who is Justice Blaise Tchikaya?
The new President brings an extensive academic and diplomatic pedigree to the role.
A Professor of International Public Law, Tchikaya earned his Doctorate with First Class Honors from Paris X-Nanterre University.
He was the first president of the African Union Commission on International Law (AUCIL) in 2009, overseeing its initial operationalisation.
He has written numerous reference texts, including the seminal African Union Law: Principles, Institutions and Jurisprudence.
He notably served as a Special Rapporteur, investigating the legal perspectives of the transatlantic slave trade’s impact on Africa.
Looking ahead
The transition comes at a critical juncture for the AfCHPR.
While the court has made strides in human rights protection across the continent, it continues to face hurdles regarding state compliance and the withdrawal of individual access by several member states.
With the 20th anniversary on the horizon, Tchikaya’s presidency will likely be defined by how he navigates these political tensions while attempting to further strengthen the court’s role in protecting the rights of over a billion African citizensΩ
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The Tranquility News Reporter/Sub Editor, Tanzania
Patty Magubira is an experienced environmental and business editor whose career started at the Tanzania's state-owned newspaper - The Daily News. He is a man of perfection. Aided by his extensive training as a community forestry expert before joining Tanzania School of Journalism. Magubira had successfully held various key posts in newsrooms, giving him an unmatched connections in media fraternity. Having worked as a bureau chief in Arusha and Mwanza, he managed to build a team work, boosting sales to the highest level ever. He was then promoted to a sub-editor after completing a training in Nairobi, Kenya. His incredible experience, critical thinking and exposure are critical to the quality of any media outlet.
