Advocates for the Rule of Law in Africa

Advocates for Rule of Law in Africa

Accepted by Thuli Madonsela, former Public Protector of South Africa (2009-2016). Madonsela played an important role in triggering the corruption investigation against former President Jacob Zuma by publishing two reports that detailed his abuses of power, despite harassment from political figures and attempts to discredit her work.

Over the past year, advocates for the rule of law in South Africa, Kenya, and Liberia have displayed true independence in holding fellow government leaders accountable and protecting the integrity of democracy. In December 2017, the South African High Court ruled to hold an inquiry into corruption allegations surrounding then-president Jacob Zuma. Soon after, the Constitutional Court ruled that the Parliament had failed to hold the president accountable for his actions.

In Kenya, the Supreme Court nullified the re-election of President Uhuru Kenyatta in September 2017, stating that the voting results were manipulated in powerful incumbent Kenyatta’s favor. While recognizing an extraordinary and courageous act by the Court Justices, their independence continues to be challenged. Additionally, the Supreme Court in Liberia upheld the decision to proceed with a run-off election in December 2017. This effort allowed for the country’s first democratic transfer of power since 1944.

With this Tribute, the World Movement wishes to recognize both the engaged members of civil society and the courageous defenders of democracy within government institutions who remain committed to transparency, integrity, and accountability in Africa.