The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR), through its Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Women in Africa, maintains an unwavering dedication to safeguarding and advancing women's rights throughout the African continent. In the face of evolving challenges, the Special Rapporteur remains vigilant in ensuring that African women can fully exercise their rights in all spheres of life, encompassing political, social, and economic realms.
The Special Rapporteur has been made aware of serious allegations of sexual harassment involving the Bilingual Secretary of the Pan-African Parliament (PAP), reportedly at the hands of the former President of PAP. Revelations from the judgments of the African Union (AU) Tribunal in the case brought forward by the victim against the Chairperson of the AU Commission have exposed a lack of investigation to uncover the truth or to hold the accountable official responsible for the allegations. Even more distressing is the absence of concrete actions taken to protect the victim from further harm despite her reporting the harassment over five years ago. This ongoing neglect is vividly portrayed in circulating social media videos, where the victim, in a plea for help, calls upon the people of Africa to stand with her as she faces threats for bravely speaking out.
It is both heart-wrenching and intolerable that, in addition to reportedly enduring harassment from the former President of PAP, the victim has also had to endure apathy and inaction from those responsible for addressing her grievances. At a time when efforts are being made to celebrate and promote increased female participation in the workforce if proven true, these allegations are deeply troubling and significantly undermine progress toward gender equality in professional settings.
The alleged incident said to have occurred within PAP, an Organ of the AU, raises serious questions about adherence to AU principles, particularly its commitment to gender equality as outlined in Article 4 of the Constitutive Act. It is alarming that such events transpired despite the existence of the AU Harassment Policy (AUC/AD/2016/06), which unequivocally states that "the Union does not condone any actions or behaviors that may reasonably be seen as harassment or retaliation related to such harassment by or against any staff member."
While this policy is a crucial legal protection, the persistence of these alleged actions and the neglect of the claims over five years underscores a harsh reality: the mere presence of protective measures offers scant assurance unless their implementation is rigorously enforced. This situation is a stark reminder that policies, regardless of their strength, are only as effective as their execution.
Moreover, in line with the Protocol to the African Charter on the Rights of Women in Africa (the Maputo Protocol), which is a groundbreaking legal instrument that specifically addresses the rights of women in Africa, it is essential to emphasize the importance of protecting women from all forms of violence, including sexual harassment. The Maputo Protocol reinforces the commitment to promoting and protecting the rights of women and underscores the need for robust measures to prevent and address gender-based violence.
In envisioning an Africa where women can confidently participate in the workforce without the fear of harassment, we must no longer tolerate such conduct or the neglect of victims within the AU. As the adage goes, "Everything starts at home," and within the AU, we must set the standard for African nations to emulate.
In my capacity as the Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Women in Africa, I strongly urge the relevant authorities to diligently investigate the allegations of sexual harassment and threats, ensuring compliance with the tribunal's verdict. It is imperative to ascertain accountability and maintain the principles of justice. Given the existing court ruling, there is a critical opportunity to leverage this decision towards seeking appropriate sanctions from the AU Commission.
The ACHPR underscores that setting a solid precedent in handling sexual harassment cases within the AU is crucial. By demonstrating a firm stance against such misconduct, the AU can send a clear message that harassment will not be tolerated and that the organization is dedicated to upholding its values of equality and respect for all individuals. This commitment is vital not only for the well-being of employees but also for fostering a safe and inclusive work environment where all individuals can thrive without fear of harassment or discrimination.
Hon. Commissioner Janet Ramatoulie Sallah-Njie,
Vice Chairperson and
Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Women in Africa of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights
