RULES OF PROCEDURE of the AFRICAN COMMISSION on ...

<strong>RULES</strong> <strong>OF</strong> <strong>PROCEDURE</strong><strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><strong>AFRICAN</strong> <strong>COMMISSION</strong>onHUMAN AND PEOPLES’ RIGHTSAfrican Commission onHuman and Peoples’RightsNo 31 Bijilo Annex LayoutKombo North DistrictWestern RegionP.O.Box 673BanjulThe GambiaTel: +220 441 05 05/6Fax: +220 441 05 04E-mail: achpr@achpr.org

<strong>RULES</strong> <strong>OF</strong> <strong>PROCEDURE</strong><strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><strong>AFRICAN</strong> <strong>COMMISSION</strong>onHUMAN AND PEOPLES’ RIGHTSApproved by <strong>the</strong> African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights during its 47th ordinarysession held in Banjul (The Gambia) from May 12 to 26, 2010 11 The Rules <strong>of</strong> Procedure were adopted by <strong>the</strong> African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights during its 2ndordinary session held in Dakar (Senegal) from February 2 to 13, 1988 and it was revised during its 18th ordinarysession held in Praia (Cabo-Verde) from October 2 to 11, 1995.

Table <strong>of</strong>ContentsPREliminary provisions 5PART ONE GENERAL <strong>RULES</strong> 7Chapter I Status and Composition 7Chapter II Membership 7Chapter III Bureau <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission 9Chapter IV Secretariat to <strong>the</strong> Commission 10Chapter V Subsidiary Mechanisms 12Chapter VI Sessions 12Chapter VII Agenda 14Chapter VIII Language 16Chapter IX Records and Reports 16Chapter X Conduct <strong>of</strong> Business 17Chapter XI Voting 19Chapter XII Motions and Proposals 20Chapter XIII Reports <strong>of</strong> The Commission 21Chapter XIV Relationships With State Parties, Intergovernmental Institutions, NationalHuman Rights Institutions, Non-Governmental Organisations, and O<strong>the</strong>r Partners 22PART TWO PROMOTION ACTIVITIES 25Chapter I General Provisions 25Chapter II The State Reporting Procedure Under Article 62 Of The Charter 26PART THREE PROTECTION ACTIVITIES 28Chapter I Matters <strong>of</strong> Emergency 28Chapter II Protection Missions 29Chapter III Consideration <strong>of</strong> Communications 30PART FOUR RELATIONSHIPS WITH THE <strong>AFRICAN</strong> COURT 43Chapter I General Provisions 43PART FIVE RELATIONSHIP WITH OTHER <strong>AFRICAN</strong> UNION ORGANS, INSTITUTIONS,AND PROGRAMMES 46PART- SIX FINAL PROVISIONS 47

Preliminary ProvisionsRule 11.2.Rule 2ObjectiveThese Rules regulate <strong>the</strong> organisationand establish <strong>the</strong> procedure <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>African Commission on Human andPeoples’ Rights in accordance withArticle 42 (2) <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> African Charteron Human and Peoples’ Rights.In <strong>the</strong> absence <strong>of</strong> a provision in <strong>the</strong>seRules or in case <strong>of</strong> doubt as to <strong>the</strong>irinterpretation, <strong>the</strong> Commission shalldecide.DefinitionsFor <strong>the</strong> purpose <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>se Rules:“African Charter” refers to <strong>the</strong>African Charter on Human andPeoples’ Rights.“African Children’s Charter” refersto <strong>the</strong> African Charter on <strong>the</strong> Rightsand Welfare <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Child.“African Commission” or“Commission” refers to <strong>the</strong> AfricanCommission on Human and Peoples’Rights.“African Court Protocol” refers to<strong>the</strong> Protocol to <strong>the</strong> African Charteron Human and Peoples’ Rights on <strong>the</strong>Establishment <strong>of</strong> an African Court onHuman and Peoples’ Rights.“African Court” refers to <strong>the</strong> AfricanCourt on Human and Peoples’Rights.“Amendment to a proposedmotion” is an addition to, deletionfrom or revision <strong>of</strong> part <strong>of</strong> thatmotion.“Assembly” refers to <strong>the</strong> Assembly<strong>of</strong> Heads <strong>of</strong> State and Government <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> African Union.“Bureau” refers to <strong>the</strong> Chairpersonand Vice Chairperson.“Chairperson” refers to <strong>the</strong>Chairperson <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> AfricanCommission on Human and Peoples’Rights.“Child Rights Committee” refers to<strong>the</strong> African Committee <strong>of</strong> Experts on<strong>the</strong> Rights and Welfare <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Child.“Commissioner” refers to a member<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> African Commission on Humanand Peoples’ Rights.“Day” shall be understood to be anatural day.“Executive Council” refers to <strong>the</strong>Executive Council <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> AfricanUnion.“Member State” refers to a MemberState <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> African Union.“Secretary” refers to <strong>the</strong> Secretaryto <strong>the</strong> African Commission on Humanand Peoples’ Rights.“Serious or massive violations”refers to grave human rightsviolations as distinguished by <strong>the</strong>irPreliminary Provisions5

scale and importance.“Session” refers to <strong>the</strong> statutorymeetings <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission. Thisincludes Ordinary and Extraordinarysessions.“Specialized Organs” refers tospecialized organs put in place by <strong>the</strong>United Nations and African Union.“State Party” refers to African Statesthat have ratified <strong>the</strong> African Charteron Human and Peoples’ Rights.“Subsidiary Mechanism” refersto any mechanism established inaccordance with Rule 23 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>seRules.“Third party” refers to any o<strong>the</strong>rparty than <strong>the</strong> complaining ordefending parties.“Union” refers to <strong>the</strong> African Union.“Vice-Chairperson” refers to <strong>the</strong>Vice-Chairperson <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> AfricanCommission on Human and Peoples’Rights.“Working Language” refers to <strong>the</strong>working languages <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> AfricanUnion.6Preliminary Provisions

Part OneGENERAL <strong>RULES</strong>Chapter I status and compositionChapter II MembershipRule 3StatusRule 5Term <strong>of</strong> <strong>of</strong>ficeRule 41.The African Commission is anautonomous treaty body workingwithin <strong>the</strong> framework <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> AfricanUnion to promote human andpeoples’ rights and ensure <strong>the</strong>irprotection in Africa.CompositionIn conformity with Article 31 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>African Charter, <strong>the</strong> Commissionshall consist <strong>of</strong> eleven (11)members chosen from amongstAfrican personalities <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> highestreputation, known for <strong>the</strong>ir highmorality, integrity, impartiality andcompetence in matters <strong>of</strong> humanand peoples’ rights, particularconsideration being given to personshaving legal experience.1.2.3.Members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission areelected for six years and shall beeligible for re-election.If a member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission isre-elected at <strong>the</strong> expiry <strong>of</strong> his or herterm <strong>of</strong> <strong>of</strong>fice, or elected to replacea member whose term <strong>of</strong> <strong>of</strong>fice hasexpired or will expire, <strong>the</strong> term <strong>of</strong><strong>of</strong>fice shall begin from that expirydate.In conformity with Article 39(3) <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> African Charter, <strong>the</strong> member <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> Commission elected to replacea member whose term has notexpired, shall complete <strong>the</strong> term <strong>of</strong>his or her predecessor. However, if<strong>the</strong> remaining term <strong>of</strong> <strong>of</strong>fice is lessthan six months, <strong>the</strong>re shall be noreplacement.2.The members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commissionshall serve in <strong>the</strong>ir personalcapacity.Rule 61.Order <strong>of</strong> precedenceIn <strong>the</strong> discharge <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir duties,members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission shallfollow <strong>the</strong> Chairperson and <strong>the</strong>Vice-Chairperson according to<strong>the</strong>ir seniority in <strong>of</strong>fice. When <strong>the</strong>reare two or more members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission with equal seniority,precedence shall be given to <strong>the</strong>oldest.Part One : General Rules7

2.Rule 71.2.A member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission whois re-elected to a new term <strong>of</strong> <strong>of</strong>ficewhich is continuous with his/herprevious term shall retain his/herprecedence.IncompatibilityThe position <strong>of</strong> member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission is incompatible with anyactivity that might interfere with <strong>the</strong>independence or impartiality <strong>of</strong> sucha member or demands <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>of</strong>ficesuch as a member <strong>of</strong> government,a Minister or under-secretary <strong>of</strong>State, a diplomatic representative, adirector <strong>of</strong> a ministry, or one <strong>of</strong> hissubordinates, or <strong>the</strong> legal adviser toa foreign <strong>of</strong>fice or any o<strong>the</strong>r politicalbinding function or participate inany activity <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> nature that willcompromise <strong>the</strong> independence andimpartiality.The Bureau <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commissionshall ensure that <strong>the</strong> requirementsin Rule 7(1) above are enforced inaccordance with Articles 31(1 & 2)and 39(2) <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> African Charter.In <strong>the</strong> case <strong>of</strong> incompatibility, <strong>the</strong>Chairperson <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commissionshall inform <strong>the</strong> Chairperson <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>African Union Commission, whoshall declare <strong>the</strong> seat vacant.2.3.4.5.6.A member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission mayresign from his or her position at anytime. He or she shall do so through awritten notification addressed to <strong>the</strong>Chairperson <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission whoshall transmit it to <strong>the</strong> Chairperson<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> African Union Commission.The resignation shall take effect threemonths from <strong>the</strong> date <strong>of</strong> submission<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> letter <strong>of</strong> resignation.The Chairperson <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> African UnionCommission shall upon receipt <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>notification, declare <strong>the</strong> seat vacant.The vacancy shall be effective from<strong>the</strong> date <strong>the</strong> resignation takes effect.In <strong>the</strong> case <strong>of</strong> death <strong>of</strong> a member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission, <strong>the</strong> Chairperson shallimmediately inform <strong>the</strong> Chairperson<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> African Union Commissionwho shall declare <strong>the</strong> seat vacantfrom <strong>the</strong> date <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> death.Every seat declared vacant inconformity with <strong>the</strong> present Ruleshall be filled in accordance withparagraph 3 <strong>of</strong> Article 39 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>African Charter.3.Rule 81.Cessation <strong>of</strong> functionIf in <strong>the</strong> unanimous opinion <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>o<strong>the</strong>r members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission, amember has stopped discharging hisor her duty for any reason o<strong>the</strong>r thantemporary absence, <strong>the</strong> Chairperson<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission shall inform <strong>the</strong>Chairperson <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> African UnionCommission, who shall declare <strong>the</strong>seat vacant.Rule 9Solemn declarationIn conformity with Article 38<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> African Charter, beforeassuming <strong>of</strong>fice, every member<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission shall make <strong>the</strong>following solemn declaration at apublic sitting <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission:“I solemnly undertake to carry outmy duties well and faithfully in allimpartiality.”8Part One : General Rules

Chapter III Bureau <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> CommissionRule 10 Composition <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> BureauThe Bureau <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission shallbe composed <strong>of</strong> a Chairperson and aVice-Chairperson who shall perform<strong>the</strong> functions set forth in <strong>the</strong> AfricanCharter and in <strong>the</strong>se Rules <strong>of</strong>Procedure.Rule 11 Election <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Bureau1.2.The Commission shall elect fromamong its members a Chairpersonand a Vice-Chairperson.Election shall be held by secretballot. Only members present shallvote. A member who obtains asimple majority <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> votes <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission presentand voting shall be elected.Rule 12 Duration <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> term <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> members<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> BureauThe members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Bureau <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission shall be elected for aperiod <strong>of</strong> two years. They shall beeligible for re-election only once.None <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>m may, however, exercisehis or her functions if he or she ceasesto be a member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission.Rule 13 Powers and functions <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Bureau1.2.The Bureau shall coordinate <strong>the</strong>promotion and protection activities<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission.The Bureau shall supervise <strong>the</strong>work <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Secretary, including <strong>the</strong>preparation and approval <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>work-plan <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission.3.The Bureau shall annually assess<strong>the</strong> performance <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Secretary. Itshall submit its assessment to <strong>the</strong>Commission for its considerationand decision.Rule 14 Powers and functions <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Chairperson1.2.a.b.c.d.e.f.g.h.The Chairperson shall carry out <strong>the</strong>functions assigned to him or her by<strong>the</strong> Charter, <strong>the</strong> Rules <strong>of</strong> Procedureand <strong>the</strong> decisions <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commissionand <strong>the</strong> Assembly. In <strong>the</strong> exercise <strong>of</strong>his or her functions <strong>the</strong> Chairpersonshall be under <strong>the</strong> authority <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission.The Chairperson shall:Represent and direct <strong>the</strong> work <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission;Preside over <strong>the</strong> meetings <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission;Submit <strong>the</strong> assessment reportreferred to in Rule 13(3) to <strong>the</strong>competent organs <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> AfricanUnion Commission;Supervise <strong>the</strong> preparation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>budget by <strong>the</strong> Secretariat and itsadoption by <strong>the</strong> Commission;Present and defend <strong>the</strong> budgetbefore <strong>the</strong> relevant African Unionbodies;Present a report to <strong>the</strong> Assembly andto <strong>the</strong> Commission on <strong>the</strong> activitiescarried out during <strong>the</strong> intersession;Perform any o<strong>the</strong>r functions thatmay be conferred upon him or herin <strong>the</strong> Rules <strong>of</strong> Procedure or o<strong>the</strong>rtasks entrusted to him or her by <strong>the</strong>Commission or <strong>the</strong> Assembly; andDelegate, when necessary, to <strong>the</strong>Vice-Chairperson or, if <strong>the</strong> Vice-Part One : General Rules9

Chairperson is not available,to ano<strong>the</strong>r Commissioner, <strong>the</strong>abovementioned powers.Rule 15 Powers and functions <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Vice-Chairperson1.2.3.4.If <strong>the</strong> Chairperson is temporarilyunable to perform his or her duties,<strong>the</strong> Vice-Chairperson, shall perform<strong>the</strong> duties <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Chairperson.The Vice-Chairperson, acting in <strong>the</strong>capacity <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Chairperson, has <strong>the</strong>same powers and functions as <strong>the</strong>Chairperson.The Vice-Chairperson shall performany o<strong>the</strong>r function delegated to himor her by <strong>the</strong> Commission or <strong>the</strong>Chairperson <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission.If both <strong>the</strong> Chairperson and <strong>the</strong>Vice-Chairperson are unable tocarry out <strong>the</strong>ir duties at <strong>the</strong> sametime, <strong>the</strong> duties <strong>of</strong> Chairpersonshall be carried out by ano<strong>the</strong>rCommissioner according to <strong>the</strong>order <strong>of</strong> precedence laid down inRule 6.Chapter IV Secretariat to <strong>the</strong>CommissionRule 17 Composition, Structure and Status <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> Secretariat1. Without prejudice to Article 41 <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> African Charter, <strong>the</strong> Commissionshall propose <strong>the</strong> organizationalstructure <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Secretariat and shallplace it before <strong>the</strong> African Union forapproval.2. The Secretariat <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission iscomposed <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Secretary and <strong>the</strong>Commission’s pr<strong>of</strong>essional, technicaland administrative staff.3. The Secretary shall be appointed by<strong>the</strong> Chairperson <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> African UnionCommission pursuant to article41 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> African Charter afterconsultation with <strong>the</strong> Chairperson<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> African Commission.4. The Status <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Secretary and<strong>the</strong> staff is governed by <strong>the</strong> AfricanUnion Staff Rules and Regulations.Rule 18 Functions <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Secretary to <strong>the</strong>CommissionRule 16 Resignation, vacancy andreplacementIf a member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Bureau <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission resigns from his or herposition or ceases to be a member<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission, <strong>the</strong> remainingmember shall represent <strong>the</strong> Bureauuntil <strong>the</strong> next session, when <strong>the</strong>Commission shall fill <strong>the</strong> position for<strong>the</strong> remainder <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> term <strong>of</strong> <strong>of</strong>fice.a.b.c.d.The Secretary to <strong>the</strong> Commission isresponsible for <strong>the</strong> activities <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Secretariat under <strong>the</strong> supervision <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> Chairperson. The Secretary shallspecifically:Assist <strong>the</strong> Chairperson, <strong>the</strong> Bureau <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> Commission and o<strong>the</strong>r members<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission in <strong>the</strong> exercise <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong>ir functions;Supervise and co-ordinate <strong>the</strong> work<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> staff <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Secretariat;Keep proper records <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission, which must be properlyorganized for easy reference;Ensure confidentiality <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>10Part One : General Rules

e.f.i.ii.iii.g.h.i.j.k.Commission’s records whereappropriate;Submit to <strong>the</strong> Chairperson and <strong>the</strong>members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission allitems that will be considered by <strong>the</strong>Commission;In consultation with <strong>the</strong> Chairperson,prepare:a draft agenda for each session;<strong>the</strong> Commission’s strategic plan,annual work plan and annualbudget;guidelines on missions for adoptionby <strong>the</strong> Commission;Present a written report to <strong>the</strong>Commission at <strong>the</strong> beginning <strong>of</strong>each session on <strong>the</strong> activities <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> Secretariat since <strong>the</strong> precedingsession;Implement <strong>the</strong> decisions entrustedto him or her by <strong>the</strong> Commission or<strong>the</strong> Bureau;Make available to <strong>the</strong> generalpublic documents which are notconfidential, including StatesReports, by ensuring that <strong>the</strong>yare posted on <strong>the</strong> website <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission;Ensure <strong>the</strong> maintenance and regularupdating <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> website <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission;Assess <strong>the</strong> performance <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> staff<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission.African Union, in accordance withcriteria laid down by <strong>the</strong> AfricanUnion in consultation with <strong>the</strong>Commission.Rule 20 Financial RulesThe implementation <strong>of</strong> provisions<strong>of</strong> Articles 41 and 44 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Chartershall be governed by <strong>the</strong> AfricanUnion’s financial rules.Rule 21 EstimateWhen <strong>the</strong> Commission considersa proposal entailing expenses, <strong>the</strong>Secretary shall prepare and presentto <strong>the</strong> members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission,as soon as possible, a reportoutlining <strong>the</strong> financial implications<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> proposal.Rule 22 Confidentiality <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> work <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>CommissionThe staff <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Secretariatmust observe <strong>the</strong> principle <strong>of</strong>confidentiality in all matters that <strong>the</strong>Commission considers confidentialas stipulated under <strong>the</strong> Charter and<strong>the</strong>se Rules.Rule 19 Financial responsibilityThe expenses <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission,emoluments and allowances forCommissioners and <strong>the</strong> budget <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> Secretariat, shall be borne by <strong>the</strong>Part One : General Rules11

Chapter V Subsidiary MECHAnismsRule 23 Special Rapporteurs, Committees andWorking Groups1.2.3.The Commission may createsubsidiary mechanisms such asspecial rapporteurs, committees,and working groups.The creation and membership <strong>of</strong>such subsidiary mechanisms maybe determined by consensus, failingwhich, <strong>the</strong> decision shall be taken byvoting.The Commission shall determine <strong>the</strong>mandate and <strong>the</strong> terms <strong>of</strong> reference<strong>of</strong> each subsidiary mechanism.Each subsidiary mechanism shallpresent a report on its work to <strong>the</strong>Commission at each ordinary session<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission.Rule 24 Applicable rules for SubsidiaryMechanismsThe Rules <strong>of</strong> Procedure <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission shall apply mutatismutandis to <strong>the</strong> proceedings <strong>of</strong> itssubsidiary mechanisms.Chapter VI SessionsRule 25 General principles1.2.The Commission shall hold Ordinaryand Extraordinary Sessions, toenable it to satisfactorily carry outits functions in conformity with <strong>the</strong>African Charter.Sessions <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission shall beheld in public unless <strong>the</strong> Commissiondecides o<strong>the</strong>rwise or if it appearsfrom <strong>the</strong> relevant provisions <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Charter that <strong>the</strong> meeting shall beheld in private.Rule 26 Ordinary Sessions1.The Commission shall hold at leasttwo Ordinary Sessions per year eachlasting for about two weeks, unless<strong>the</strong> Commission decides o<strong>the</strong>rwise.2. The Ordinary Sessions <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission shall be convened on adate fixed by <strong>the</strong> Commission upon<strong>the</strong> proposal <strong>of</strong> its Chairperson andin consultation with <strong>the</strong> Chairperson<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> African Union Commission.3. In exceptional circumstances,<strong>the</strong> Chairperson <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> AfricanUnion Commission may change<strong>the</strong> opening date <strong>of</strong> a session, inconsultation with <strong>the</strong> Chairperson<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission.Rule 27 Extraordinary Sessions1. The Commission shall also holdExtraordinary Sessions.2. The Chairperson <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commissionshall convene ExtraordinarySessions:a. At <strong>the</strong> request <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> majority <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission; orb. At <strong>the</strong> request <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Chairperson <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> African Union Commission.12Part One : General Rules

3. Extraordinary Sessions shall beconvened on a date fixed by <strong>the</strong>Chairperson <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission, inconsultation with <strong>the</strong> Chairperson<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> African Union Commissionand <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission.5. The Commission may hold jointsessions in consultation with <strong>the</strong>African Court on Human and Peoples’Rights, <strong>the</strong> Committee <strong>of</strong> Experts on<strong>the</strong> Rights and Welfare <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Child,or any o<strong>the</strong>r African regional humanrights organ.Rule 28 Place <strong>of</strong> meetings1. The sessions <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commissionshall be held at its headquarters, orin <strong>the</strong> territory <strong>of</strong> any o<strong>the</strong>r StateParty which invites <strong>the</strong> Commission.2. In <strong>the</strong> event that a State Partyinvites <strong>the</strong> Commission to hold asession in its country, that StateParty shall sign an agreementwith <strong>the</strong> Commission to host <strong>the</strong>session <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission, whichagreement shall vest <strong>the</strong> StateParty with <strong>the</strong> responsibility forall additional expenses incurredby <strong>the</strong> Commission as a result <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> session being held outside itsheadquarters, in conformity with<strong>the</strong> relevant rules <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> AfricanUnion.3. A State Party <strong>of</strong>fering to host asession <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission shallnot be under any suspension <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> African Union. Any countrywishing to host a session <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission should commit itself torespecting <strong>the</strong> provisions <strong>of</strong> Article62, and should comply with all <strong>the</strong>recommendations <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> AfricanCommission, where necessary.4. The Commission may, in consultationwith <strong>the</strong> Chairperson <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> AfricanUnion Commission, hold a sessionat <strong>the</strong> headquarters <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> AfricanUnion. The sharing <strong>of</strong> costs for suchsession shall be as agreed with <strong>the</strong>African Union Commission.Rule 29 Notification <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Opening Date <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> Sessions1. The Secretary shall inform members<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> dateand venue <strong>of</strong> each session. Thisnotice shall be sent, in <strong>the</strong> case <strong>of</strong>an Ordinary Session, at least sixty(60) days before <strong>the</strong> Session unlessexceptional circumstances requireo<strong>the</strong>rwise.2. In <strong>the</strong> case <strong>of</strong> an ExtraordinarySession, <strong>the</strong> notice shall be sent assoon as possible before <strong>the</strong> beginning<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> session.Rule 30 QuorumSeven members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commissionshall constitute <strong>the</strong> quorum, asspecified in Article 42 (3) <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Charter.Rule 31 Private Sessions1. Private Sessions <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commissionshall be held in private anddeliberations shall remainconfidential.2. During a Private Session, <strong>the</strong>Secretary to <strong>the</strong> Commission,members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Secretariat andpersons providing technicalor secretarial assistance to <strong>the</strong>Commission shall be present unless<strong>the</strong> Commission decides o<strong>the</strong>rwise.Part One : General Rules13

3. The Commission shall ensure <strong>the</strong>confidentiality <strong>of</strong> all case files,including pleadings. This provisionshall not be interpreted to prohibit<strong>the</strong> prompt sharing <strong>of</strong> pleadings with<strong>the</strong> parties to a Communication.4. The Chairperson <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commissionmay communicate to <strong>the</strong> publicgeneral information on deliberationsin Private Sessions, subject to <strong>the</strong>exigencies <strong>of</strong> Article 59 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Charter and any special directionsby <strong>the</strong> Commission.CHAPTER VII AGENDARule 32 Provisional Agenda1. The Provisional Agenda for eachOrdinary Session shall be drawn upby <strong>the</strong> Secretary in consultation with<strong>the</strong> Bureau <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission andin accordance with <strong>the</strong> provisions <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> Charter and <strong>the</strong> present Rules <strong>of</strong>Procedure.2. The Provisional Agenda shallinclude but not be limited to, itemson “Communications from States”and “O<strong>the</strong>r Communications” inconformity with <strong>the</strong> provisions<strong>of</strong> Articles 48, 49, and 55 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Charter.3. Pursuant to paragraph 1 <strong>of</strong> this Rule,<strong>the</strong> Provisional Agenda may alsoinclude items proposed by:a. The Commission at a previousSession;b. The Chairperson <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commissionor a member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission;c. A State Party to <strong>the</strong> African Charter;d. Any African Union organ;e. An organisation recognized by <strong>the</strong>African Union, a national humanrights institution with affiliate statusor a non-governmental organisationwith observer status;f. A specialized institution <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> UnitedNations <strong>of</strong> which <strong>the</strong> State Parties to<strong>the</strong> African Charter are members.4. The items to be included in <strong>the</strong>provisional agenda under subparagraphsd, e and f <strong>of</strong> paragraph3 above shall be communicatedto <strong>the</strong> Secretary, accompanied bysupporting documents, not later thansixty (60) days before <strong>the</strong> opening <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> Session at which <strong>the</strong>se items areto be discussed.14Part One : General Rules

5. The decision to include an item on<strong>the</strong> provisional agenda is taken by<strong>the</strong> Bureau <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission. If <strong>the</strong>request is accepted, <strong>the</strong> Secretaryshall include <strong>the</strong> item on <strong>the</strong>Provisional Agenda <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> sessionand inform <strong>the</strong> requesting party <strong>of</strong>this decision within one month.6. The Provisional Agenda <strong>of</strong> anExtraordinary Session <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission shall include only <strong>the</strong>items in <strong>the</strong> notification issued by <strong>the</strong>Chairperson.Rule 33 Transmission and distribution <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Provisional Agenda1.2.3.4.The Secretary shall distribute <strong>the</strong>Provisional Agenda and <strong>the</strong> relevantworking documents to <strong>the</strong> members<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission at least sixty(60) days before <strong>the</strong> opening <strong>of</strong> anOrdinary Session.The Secretary shall transmit <strong>the</strong>provisional agenda and <strong>the</strong> essentialdocuments <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> session to StateParties, <strong>the</strong> Chairperson <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>African Union Commission, affiliateinstitutions and observers at leastforty-five (45) days before <strong>the</strong>opening <strong>of</strong> an Ordinary Session <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> Commission.The Secretary, in consultation with<strong>the</strong> members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission inexceptional cases, may distribute<strong>the</strong> Provisional Agenda and essentialdocuments relating to certain itemson <strong>the</strong> Agenda thirty (30) daysprior to <strong>the</strong> opening <strong>of</strong> an OrdinarySession.The Secretary shall transmit byall appropriate means, includingposting on <strong>the</strong> website <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission, <strong>the</strong> ProvisionalAgenda <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Session to StateParties, <strong>the</strong> Chairperson <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>African Union Commission, affiliateinstitutions and observers at leastfifteen (15) days before <strong>the</strong> opening<strong>of</strong> an Ordinary Session <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission.Rule 34 Adoption <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Agenda1.2.At <strong>the</strong> beginning <strong>of</strong> each Session,<strong>the</strong> Commission shall adopt <strong>the</strong>agenda <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Session.Proposals made under Rule 32(3) <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> present Rules shall be includedin <strong>the</strong> Agenda <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Session if amajority <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> members present sodecide.Rule 35 Revision <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> AgendaThe Commission may, during <strong>the</strong>Session, revise its Agenda.Part One : General Rules15

CHAPTER VIII LANGUAGERule 36 Working Languages1. The Working Languages <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission and all its subsidiarymechanisms are those <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> AfricanUnion.2. The proceedings <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commissionshall be conducted in any <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Working Languages <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> AfricanUnion.3. Any person addressing <strong>the</strong>Commission in a language o<strong>the</strong>rthan one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Working Languagesshall ensure <strong>the</strong> interpretation intoone <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Working Languages <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> Commission. The interpreters<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission shall takethis interpretation as <strong>the</strong> sourcelanguage for <strong>the</strong>ir interpretation in<strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r Working Languages <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission.CHAPTER IX RECORDS AND REPORTSRule 37 Records and reports <strong>of</strong> Sessions1.2.3.The Secretary shall keep recordings<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> proceedings <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> sessions <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> Commission and <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> meetings<strong>of</strong> its subsidiary mechanisms.The Secretary shall prepare a Report<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> proceedings <strong>of</strong> each session <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> Commission.The Report referred to in paragraph2 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> present rule shall beadopted by <strong>the</strong> Commission beforepublication, including posting on <strong>the</strong>website.Rule 38 Publication and distribution <strong>of</strong>Session Reports1.2.The Final Report <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> PublicSession shall be posted on <strong>the</strong>website unless <strong>the</strong> Commissiondecides o<strong>the</strong>rwise.The Final Report <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> privatesessions <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission shallbe distributed to all members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission.16Part One : General Rules

CHAPTER X CONDUCT <strong>OF</strong> BUSINESSRule 39 Additional powers <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> ChairpersonThe Chairperson shall open andclose each session, direct <strong>the</strong>discussions, ensure observance<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> present Rules <strong>of</strong> Procedure,accord <strong>the</strong> right to speak, putquestions to <strong>the</strong> vote and announcedecisions.Rule 40 Points <strong>of</strong> Order1.2.During a debate on any matter amember <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission may, atany time, raise a point <strong>of</strong> order and<strong>the</strong> Chairperson <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission,in accordance with <strong>the</strong> Rules <strong>of</strong>Procedure, shall immediately ruleon <strong>the</strong> point <strong>of</strong> order. If a member <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> Commission contests <strong>the</strong> ruling,it shall immediately be put to a vote.If <strong>the</strong> majority <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> members <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> Commission present uphold<strong>the</strong> Chairperson’s ruling, it shall bemaintained.A member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission raisinga point <strong>of</strong> order cannot, in his or hercomments, deal with <strong>the</strong> substance<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> matter under discussion.Rule 41 Adjournment <strong>of</strong> debatesDuring <strong>the</strong> discussion on any matter,a member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission maymove for <strong>the</strong> adjournment <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>debate. In addition to <strong>the</strong> proposer<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> motion, one member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission may speak in favour<strong>of</strong> and one against <strong>the</strong> motionafter which <strong>the</strong> motion shall beimmediately put to a vote.Rule 42 Time limit accorded to speakersThe Chairperson <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commissionmay limit <strong>the</strong> time accorded to eachspeaker on any matter. When aspeaker exceeds his or her allottedtime, <strong>the</strong> Chairperson <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission shall call him or her toorder.Rule 43 Closing <strong>the</strong> list <strong>of</strong> speakers1.2.The Chairperson <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commissionmay, before <strong>the</strong> beginning <strong>of</strong> a debate,read out <strong>the</strong> list <strong>of</strong> speakers andwith <strong>the</strong> consent <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission,declare <strong>the</strong> list closed.The Chairperson <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commissionmay, however, accord <strong>the</strong> right <strong>of</strong>reply to any speaker if a speechdelivered after <strong>the</strong> list has beenclosed makes this desirable.Rule 44- Closure <strong>of</strong> debate1.2.A member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission may,at any time during a debate, movefor <strong>the</strong> closure <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> debate on <strong>the</strong>item under discussion, even if <strong>the</strong>o<strong>the</strong>r members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commissionor representatives have expressed<strong>the</strong> desire to take <strong>the</strong> floor. Theauthorization to take <strong>the</strong> floor on <strong>the</strong>closure <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> debate shall be givenonly to two speakers for and against<strong>the</strong> closure, after which <strong>the</strong> motionshall immediately be put to a vote.When <strong>the</strong> debate on an item isconcluded, <strong>the</strong> Chairperson <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission shall declare <strong>the</strong> debateclosed.Part One : General Rules17

Rule 45 Adjournment or closure <strong>of</strong> sessionDuring <strong>the</strong> discussion on any matter,a member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission maymove for <strong>the</strong> adjournment or closure<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> sessions. No discussion onany such motion shall be permittedand it shall be immediately put to avote.Rule 46 Order <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> MotionsThe following motions shall haveprecedence in <strong>the</strong> following orderover all <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r proposals ormotions before <strong>the</strong> Commission:a.b.c.d.e.f.Competence <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission;Point <strong>of</strong> order;Recusal <strong>of</strong> a Member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission;Adjournment <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> session;Adjournment <strong>of</strong> debate on <strong>the</strong>item under discussion;Closure <strong>of</strong> debate on <strong>the</strong> itemunder discussion.Rule 47 Submission <strong>of</strong> motion andamendment <strong>of</strong> substanceUnless <strong>the</strong> Commission decideso<strong>the</strong>rwise, <strong>the</strong> motions oramendments to motions onsubstantive matters made bymembers <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission shall besubmitted in writing to <strong>the</strong> Secretarywith supporting documents.Rule 48 Withdrawal and re-submission <strong>of</strong> amotionThe sponsor <strong>of</strong> a motion maywithdraw it before it is put tovote, provided that it has not beenamended. Ano<strong>the</strong>r member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission may re-submit a motionthus withdrawn. When a member <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> Commission moves for <strong>the</strong> resubmission<strong>of</strong> a motion, only onemember <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission mayspeak in favour <strong>of</strong> and one against<strong>the</strong> motion, after which it shallimmediately be put to a vote.Rule 49 Oral interventions1.2.3.No one may take <strong>the</strong> floor at ameeting <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission without<strong>the</strong> authorization <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Chairperson<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission. The Chairperson<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission shall grant <strong>the</strong>floor to speakers in <strong>the</strong> order inwhich it has been requested.Oral intervention shall deal solelywith <strong>the</strong> matter under discussion by<strong>the</strong> Commission and <strong>the</strong> Chairperson<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission shall call to orderany speaker whose remarks areirrelevant.The Chairperson <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commissionmay limit <strong>the</strong> time accorded tospeakers as well as <strong>the</strong> number <strong>of</strong>interventions in accordance with<strong>the</strong> present Rules <strong>of</strong> Procedure. Thetime limit for each speaker shall bedetermined by <strong>the</strong> Chairperson.Rule 50 Right <strong>of</strong> reply1.A right <strong>of</strong> reply may be granted by<strong>the</strong> Chairperson <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commissionto any member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commissionor representative <strong>of</strong> a State Partywho requests it.18Part One : General Rules

2.3.A member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission orrepresentative <strong>of</strong> a State Partymust, while exercising this right,respect <strong>the</strong> time limit fixed by <strong>the</strong>Chairperson for reply and take <strong>the</strong>floor preferably at <strong>the</strong> end <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>sitting at which this right has beenrequested.The right <strong>of</strong> reply shall be limited toone reply per party and all partiesshall have <strong>the</strong> same length <strong>of</strong> time toreply.CHAPTER XI VOTINGRule 51 Right to vote1.2.3.Decisions <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission may betaken by consensus, failing which <strong>the</strong>decision shall be taken by voting.However, at <strong>the</strong> request <strong>of</strong> amember, any proposal or motionshall be put to a vote.Each member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commissionshall have one vote. In <strong>the</strong> case <strong>of</strong> atie in votes, <strong>the</strong> Chairperson <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission shall have a castingvote.Rule 52 Required majority1.2.Except as o<strong>the</strong>rwise provided by<strong>the</strong> African Charter or <strong>the</strong> presentRules <strong>of</strong> Procedure, decisions <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> Commission shall be taken bya simple majority <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> memberspresent and voting.For <strong>the</strong> purpose <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Rules <strong>of</strong>Procedure, <strong>the</strong> expression “memberspresent and voting” shall meanmembers voting for or against. Themembers who shall abstain fromvoting shall be considered as nonvotingmembers.Rule 53 Method <strong>of</strong> voting1.Subject to <strong>the</strong> provisions <strong>of</strong> Rule56 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> present Rules, <strong>the</strong>Commission, unless it o<strong>the</strong>rwisedecides, shall vote by show <strong>of</strong> hands,but any member may request a rollcallvote, which shall be taken inalphabetical order.Part One : General Rules19

2.3.In all <strong>the</strong> votes by roll-call eachmember shall reply “yes” or “no”or “abstention”. The vote <strong>of</strong> eachmember participating in <strong>the</strong> ballotshall be recorded in <strong>the</strong> minutes.The Commission may decide to holda secret ballot.Rule 54 Explanation <strong>of</strong> voteMembers may make brief statementsonly for <strong>the</strong> purpose <strong>of</strong> explaining<strong>the</strong>ir vote, before <strong>the</strong> beginning <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> vote or once <strong>the</strong> vote has beentaken.Rule 55 Rules to be observed while votingA vote shall not be interrupted exceptif a member raises a point <strong>of</strong> orderrelated to <strong>the</strong> manner in which <strong>the</strong>voting is being done.Rule 56 ElectionsElections shall be held by secretballot unless <strong>the</strong> election is for apost for which only one candidatehas been proposed and thatcandidate has been agreed upon by<strong>the</strong> members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission.CHAPTER XII MOTIONS AND PROPOSALSRule 57 Division <strong>of</strong> proposalsProposals in a motion maybe separated if a member sorequests. The parts <strong>of</strong> proposalsor amendments that have beenadopted shall later be put to a voteas a whole. If all <strong>the</strong> operative parts<strong>of</strong> a motion have been rejected, <strong>the</strong>motion shall be considered to havebeen rejected as a whole.Rule 58 Order <strong>of</strong> voting on proposals1.2.3.If two or more proposals are madeon <strong>the</strong> same matter, <strong>the</strong> Commission,unless it decides o<strong>the</strong>rwise, shallvote on <strong>the</strong>se proposals in <strong>the</strong> orderin which <strong>the</strong>y were submitted.After each vote, <strong>the</strong> Commission maydecide whe<strong>the</strong>r it shall put <strong>the</strong> nextproposal to a vote.However, motions which are noton <strong>the</strong> substance <strong>of</strong> a proposalshall be voted upon before <strong>the</strong> saidproposals.20Part One : General Rules

CHAPTER XIII REPORTS <strong>OF</strong> THE<strong>COMMISSION</strong>Rule 59 Activity Reports1.2.3.The Commission shall submit anActivity Report <strong>of</strong> its promotion,protection and o<strong>the</strong>r activitiesto each Ordinary Session <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Assembly.The content <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Activity Report<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission to be presentedto <strong>the</strong> Assembly by its Chairpersonor his/her representative shall bedetermined by <strong>the</strong> Commission.Once <strong>the</strong> Activity Report isconsidered by <strong>the</strong> Assembly, <strong>the</strong>Secretary shall publish it, includingposting on <strong>the</strong> website, and shalltransmit it to State Parties, AfricanUnion organs, National HumanRights Institutions and Civil SocietyOrganizations.Rule 60 Mission Reports1. Upon completion <strong>of</strong> a Mission, <strong>the</strong>Secretary shall, within thirty (30)days, draft <strong>the</strong> mission report inconformity with <strong>the</strong> Commission’sGuidelines on Mission Reports.2. The Secretary shall send <strong>the</strong> draftMission Report to all <strong>the</strong> members<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission’s delegation whoshall submit <strong>the</strong>ir comments withinThirty (30) days.3. In <strong>the</strong> case <strong>of</strong> a mission for promotionactivities, <strong>the</strong> Secretary shall,after <strong>the</strong> mission report has beencommented upon by <strong>the</strong> members<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> delegation referred to inparagraph 2 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> present Rules,submit <strong>the</strong> Report incorporating <strong>the</strong>observations <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> members to <strong>the</strong>Commission for consideration andadoption at its next session.4.5.6.The adopted mission report shall besent to <strong>the</strong> State Party concerned forits comments, to be given within sixty(60) days from <strong>the</strong> day <strong>of</strong> receipt<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Report. After sixty days, <strong>the</strong>Report shall be published with <strong>the</strong>comments <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> State Party , if any.In <strong>the</strong> case <strong>of</strong> a mission for protectionactivities, <strong>the</strong> Mission Report shallbe sent to <strong>the</strong> members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>delegation referred to in paragraph2 <strong>of</strong> this Rules, as well as to o<strong>the</strong>rconcerned parties, including anyparty to a Communication thatwas a subject <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Mission. TheCommission shall consider <strong>the</strong>comments <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>se parties whenfinalizing <strong>the</strong> Report, especially withregard to any proposal for amicablesettlement.The Report <strong>of</strong> any protection missionas well as <strong>the</strong> comments from <strong>the</strong>State Party concerned and o<strong>the</strong>rconcerned parties, where applicable,shall be annexed to <strong>the</strong> ActivityReport <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission.Rule 61 Distribution <strong>of</strong> reports and o<strong>the</strong>r<strong>of</strong>ficial documents1.2.Reports, decisions, sessiondocuments and all o<strong>the</strong>r <strong>of</strong>ficialdocuments <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission andits subsidiary mechanisms shall bedocuments for general distributionunless <strong>the</strong> Commission decideso<strong>the</strong>rwise. Upon <strong>the</strong>ir adoption by<strong>the</strong> Commission, reports shall bepublished in accordance with Article59(2) <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Charter.Reports and additional informationsubmitted by States Parties underArticle 62 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> African Charter shallbe documents for general distributionin <strong>the</strong> Working Languages <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Part One : General Rules21

3.African Union and shall be posted on<strong>the</strong> Commission’s website as soon as<strong>the</strong>y are received at <strong>the</strong> Secretariat<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission;The Secretary shall ensure <strong>the</strong>publication <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission’sActivity Report and post it on <strong>the</strong>website <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission afterconsideration by <strong>the</strong> Assembly.CHAPTER XIV RELATIONSHIPS WITHSTATE PARTIES, INTERGOVERNMENTALINSTITUTIONS, NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTSINSTITUTIONS, NON-GOVERNMENTALORGANISATIONS, AND OTHER PARTNERSRule 62 General PrincipleThe Commission may invite anyState Party, institution, organisationor person capable <strong>of</strong> enlightening itto participate in its sessions withoutvoting rights.Rules 63 Discussions on Human RightsSituations1.2.In conformity with Rule 32(3) <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> present Rules <strong>of</strong> Procedure, anyState Party, African Union organ,specialized agency or body <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>United Nations or o<strong>the</strong>r organisationrecognized by <strong>the</strong> African Union,national human rights institutionwith affiliate status, or nongovernmentalorganisation withobserver status, may request that<strong>the</strong> African Commission include inits agenda for an Ordinary Sessiona discussion on any human rightsissue. Such a request shall be madesixty (60) days in advance <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>session at which <strong>the</strong> discussion is totake place.Where <strong>the</strong> discussion requires<strong>the</strong> presence <strong>of</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r partnersand parties, <strong>the</strong> requesting partyshall so indicate in <strong>the</strong> documentsthat it presents to <strong>the</strong> Commissionpursuant to Rule 34(2) <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>present Rules. If <strong>the</strong> Bureau <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> Commission decides that <strong>the</strong>participation <strong>of</strong> additional partnersand parties is necessary, it shallinvite <strong>the</strong>m to attend and transmitto <strong>the</strong>m all relevant documentation22Part One : General Rules

and information on <strong>the</strong> proposeddiscussion from <strong>the</strong> requestingparty.Rule 64 Participation <strong>of</strong> States Parties1.2.The Commission or its subsidiarymechanisms may invite any StateParty to participate in <strong>the</strong> discussion<strong>of</strong> any issue that shall be <strong>of</strong> particularinterest to that State.A State thus invited shall haveno voting right, but may submitproposals which may be put to avote at <strong>the</strong> request <strong>of</strong> any member <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> Commission or <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> subsidiarymechanism concerned.Rule 65 Participation <strong>of</strong> specialized agencies,intergovernmental organisations and UnitedNations bodies1.2.3.4.Specializedagencies,intergovernmental organisationsand United Nations bodies may takepart in <strong>the</strong> Public Sessions <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission.The Commission may permitrepresentatives <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>se bodiesto make oral or submit writtenstatements during its session.Pursuant to Articles 45(1) and 46 <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> African Charter, <strong>the</strong> Commissionmay invite <strong>the</strong>se bodies to submitreports on <strong>the</strong> implementation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>African Charter in areas <strong>of</strong> commonconcern.The Commission may take part in<strong>the</strong> activities <strong>of</strong> specialized agencies,intergovernmental organisationsand United Nations bodies andagree through a Memorandum <strong>of</strong>Understanding on areas <strong>of</strong> commonconcern.Rule 66 Donors1.2.3.4.5.Subject to Article 41 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Charter,<strong>the</strong> Commission may negotiatefinancial agreements with donors.These financial agreements shallbe signed by <strong>the</strong> Secretary afterapproval by <strong>the</strong> Bureau. Originalcopies <strong>of</strong> such agreements shallbe kept at <strong>the</strong> Secretariat <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission.The Commission shall inform <strong>the</strong>African Union Commission <strong>of</strong> anyproposal to accept funds fromany donor including details <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>amount <strong>of</strong> money to be provided,<strong>the</strong> project or projects for which <strong>the</strong>funds are sought and any condition<strong>of</strong> receipt <strong>of</strong> such funding.Such agreements shall specifyexpected outcomes, monitoring andevaluation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> project funded by<strong>the</strong> donor.The Secretary shall prepareand submit reports on <strong>the</strong>implementation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> agreementto <strong>the</strong> Commission at each OrdinarySession.Donors may be invited to attendsessions <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission.Rule 67 National Human Rights Institutions1.2.National Human Rights Institutionsestablished by States Partiesand functioning according tointernationally and regionallyrecognized norms and standardsmay be granted affiliate status with<strong>the</strong> Commission.National Human Rights Institutionshaving affiliate status with <strong>the</strong>Commission shall enjoy <strong>the</strong> rightsand perform <strong>the</strong> duties stipulatedin <strong>the</strong> Resolution on <strong>the</strong> Granting <strong>of</strong>Part One : General Rules23

3.4.Affiliate Status to National HumanRights Institutions in Africa.The African Commission shall grantaffiliate status to only one NationalHuman Rights Institution in eachState Party.The African Commission mayinvite o<strong>the</strong>r National Human RightsInstitutions that do not meet <strong>the</strong>criteria provided in paragraphs 1and 2 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> present Rules to attendits sessions as observers.Rule 68 Non-governmental organisations1.2.3.Non-governmental organisationsworking in <strong>the</strong> field <strong>of</strong> human rightsin Africa may be granted observerstatus with <strong>the</strong> Commission.Non-governmental organisationshaving observer status with <strong>the</strong>Commission shall enjoy <strong>the</strong> rightsand perform <strong>the</strong> duties stipulatedin <strong>the</strong> Resolution on <strong>the</strong> Granting <strong>of</strong>Observer Status.Non-Governmental organisationswith observer status with <strong>the</strong>Commission shall fulfil <strong>the</strong>irobligations stipulated under <strong>the</strong>Resolution referred to in paragraph2 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> present Rules.24Part One : General Rules

Part TwoPROMOTION ACTIVITIESCHAPTER I GENERAL PROVISIONSRule 69 Program <strong>of</strong> promotion activitiesThe Commission shall adopt andcarry out a program <strong>of</strong> promotionactivities to give effect to itsmandate under <strong>the</strong> African Charter,in accordance with Article 45(1).Rule 70 Promotion missions1.2.3.The Commission shall carry outpromotion missions, to StatesParties.Promotion missions shall begoverned by <strong>the</strong> Commission’sGuidelines for Missions as well as<strong>the</strong> Format for Pre-mission Reports.For each promotion mission, <strong>the</strong>Commission shall develop terms <strong>of</strong>reference bearing in mind <strong>the</strong> humanrights situation in <strong>the</strong> country.3.Where <strong>the</strong> Commission receivesan invitation to participate in anypromotion activity, <strong>the</strong> Secretaryshall inform <strong>the</strong> Bureau immediately,and <strong>the</strong> latter shall decide on <strong>the</strong>course <strong>of</strong> action.Rule 72 Activity Reports <strong>of</strong> CommissionersAt each Ordinary Session, eachmember <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission shallsubmit a written report <strong>of</strong> his orher promotion activities undertakenduring <strong>the</strong> inter-session.Rule 71 O<strong>the</strong>r promotion activities1.2.The Commission shall undertakepromotion activities o<strong>the</strong>r thanpromotion missions, includingseminars, conferences, symposiaetc.These activities shall be undertakenei<strong>the</strong>r on its own or in collaborationwith partners.Part Two : Promotion Activities25

CHAPTER II THE STATE REPORTING<strong>PROCEDURE</strong> UNDER ARTICLE 62 <strong>OF</strong> THECHARTERRule 73 Contents <strong>of</strong> State Reports1. Pursuant to Article 62 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> AfricanCharter and o<strong>the</strong>r relevant legalinstruments which supplement<strong>the</strong>m, including <strong>the</strong> Protocol to <strong>the</strong>African Charter on <strong>the</strong> Rights <strong>of</strong>Women in Africa in its Article 26,States Parties shall submit reportsin accordance with <strong>the</strong> guidelines <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> Commission, on <strong>the</strong> measures<strong>the</strong>y have taken to give effectto <strong>the</strong> provisions <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> AfricanCharter and on <strong>the</strong> progress <strong>the</strong>yhave made. Reports shall indicate<strong>the</strong> challenges, if any, affecting<strong>the</strong> implementation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> AfricanCharter and its relevant protocols.2. The Secretary to <strong>the</strong> Commissionshall send to States Parties <strong>the</strong>Guidelines on State Reports.Rule 74 Transmission <strong>of</strong> State Reports1.2.3.Upon receipt <strong>of</strong> a State Report, <strong>the</strong>Secretary shall upload <strong>the</strong> Reporton <strong>the</strong> Commission’s website andindicate when <strong>the</strong> Report will beexamined by <strong>the</strong> Commission.Institutions, organizations orany interested party wishing tocontribute to <strong>the</strong> examination <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> Report and <strong>the</strong> human rightssituation in <strong>the</strong> country concerned,shall send <strong>the</strong>ir contributions,including shadow reports, to <strong>the</strong>Secretary at least 60 days prior to<strong>the</strong> examination <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Report.The Secretary may also invite specificinstitutions to submit informationrelating to <strong>the</strong> state report within atime limit that he/she may specify.Rule 75 Consideration <strong>of</strong> Reports1.2.3.4.5.The Chairperson <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commissionshall, through <strong>the</strong> Secretary informStates Parties <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> opening dateand venue <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Session at which<strong>the</strong>ir respective reports shall beconsidered.States Parties shall be representedin <strong>the</strong> sessions <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commissionat which <strong>the</strong>ir reports are to beconsidered.Representatives <strong>of</strong> States Partiesshall respond to <strong>the</strong> questionsprepared by <strong>the</strong> Commission, andquestions <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission and provide whennecessary, any o<strong>the</strong>r informationrequested during or after <strong>the</strong>session.If a State Party fails to send arepresentative to <strong>the</strong> session <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission at which its reportis to be examined, consideration<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> report shall be rescheduledfor <strong>the</strong> next session. If, at <strong>the</strong> saidsession, <strong>the</strong> concerned State Party,after due notification, fails to senda representative, <strong>the</strong> Commissionshall consider <strong>the</strong> State Report .During <strong>the</strong> consideration <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>state report submitted by a StateParty in accordance with Article62 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Charter, <strong>the</strong> Commissionshall explore all <strong>the</strong> pertinentinformation relating to <strong>the</strong> humanrights situation in <strong>the</strong> Stateconcerned, including statementsand shadow reports from NationalHuman Rights Institutions andNGOs.26Part Two : Promotion Activities

Rule 76 Non-submission <strong>of</strong> Reports1.2.3.The Commission shall, at <strong>the</strong>beginning <strong>of</strong> each year, inform <strong>the</strong>States Parties which are not up todate with <strong>the</strong>ir obligations underArticle 62 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> deadlines <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>irsubmission <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir reports and <strong>the</strong>date at which <strong>the</strong>y are expected tocomply.At <strong>the</strong> beginning <strong>of</strong> each OrdinarySession, <strong>the</strong> Secretary shall inform<strong>the</strong> Commission <strong>of</strong> all cases <strong>of</strong>non-submission <strong>of</strong> reports or <strong>of</strong>additional information requestedby <strong>the</strong> Commission. In such cases,<strong>the</strong> Chairperson <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commissionmay send a reminder, through<strong>the</strong> Secretary, to <strong>the</strong> State Partyconcerned;The Activity Report <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission shall point out <strong>the</strong>status <strong>of</strong> initial and Periodic Report<strong>of</strong> States Parties.Rule 77 Concluding ObservationsRule 78 Follow-up <strong>of</strong> implementation <strong>of</strong>Concluding Observations <strong>of</strong> State Reports1.2.3.In <strong>the</strong> Concluding Observations,<strong>the</strong> Commission shall specify, ifnecessary, <strong>the</strong> issues that requireurgent attention on <strong>the</strong> part <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> State Party. The date <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>presentation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> next PeriodicReport by <strong>the</strong> State Party shallbe included in <strong>the</strong> ConcludingObservations.The Members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commissionshall ensure <strong>the</strong> follow-up on<strong>the</strong> implementation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>recommendations from <strong>the</strong>Concluding Observations within<strong>the</strong> framework <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir promotionactivities to <strong>the</strong> States Partiesconcerned.The Commission shall also transmitto <strong>the</strong> Assembly <strong>the</strong> observationsmentioned in Rule 77(1), withcopies <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> reports it has receivedfrom <strong>the</strong> States Parties as well as <strong>the</strong>comments supplied by <strong>the</strong> latter, ifany.1.2.3.The Commission shall, afterconsideration <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> report <strong>of</strong> aState Party, formulate ConcludingObservations.The Concluding Observations <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission shall comply with <strong>the</strong>Guidelines <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission onConcluding Observations.The Concluding Observations shallbe transmitted to <strong>the</strong> State Partyconcerned within thirty (30) daysafter <strong>the</strong> session at which <strong>the</strong>Observations were adopted. Theyshall form part <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission’sactivity report and be posted on <strong>the</strong>website <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission after <strong>the</strong>adoption <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Activity Report.Part Two : Promotion Activities27

Part ThreePROTECTION ACTIVITIESCHAPTER I MATTERS <strong>OF</strong> EMERGENCYRule 80 Action on Matters <strong>of</strong> EmergencyRule 79 Decision on Matters <strong>of</strong> Emergency1. The Commission shall treat asituation as a matter <strong>of</strong> emergencyunder Article 58(3) <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> AfricanCharter, when:a.b.it is one <strong>of</strong> serious or massivehuman rights violations;it presents <strong>the</strong> danger <strong>of</strong>irreparable harm or requiresurgent action to avoidirreparable damage;2. When a situation <strong>of</strong> emergency arisesduring a session <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission,<strong>the</strong> decision to treat it as such shallbe taken by <strong>the</strong> Commission.3. When a situation arises during <strong>the</strong>Commission’s inter-session period,<strong>the</strong> decision to treat it as a matter<strong>of</strong> emergency shall be taken by <strong>the</strong>Bureau <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission, whichshall keep o<strong>the</strong>r members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission informed and presenta report on <strong>the</strong> situation at <strong>the</strong> nextsession <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission.1.2.When <strong>the</strong> Commission has decided totreat a situation as one <strong>of</strong> emergency,it shall:a.b.c.d.Draw <strong>the</strong> attention <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Chairperson <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Assembly <strong>of</strong>Heads <strong>of</strong> State and Government<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> African Union to <strong>the</strong> matterin accordance with Article 58(3)<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Charter;Draw <strong>the</strong> attention <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Peace and Security Council to<strong>the</strong> matter in accordance withArticle 19 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Protocol onPeace and Security Council;Inform <strong>the</strong> Executive Council;Inform <strong>the</strong> Chairperson <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>African Union Commission <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> matter.The Commission as well as itssubsidiary mechanisms under <strong>the</strong>Charter and present Rules, shallalso take any appropriate action,including Urgent Appeals.28Part Three : Protection Activities

CHAPTER II PROTECTION MISSIONSRule 81 General provisions1.2.3.4.If it deems it necessary and advisable,<strong>the</strong> Commission may carry out aprotection mission to a State Party.States Parties shall provide <strong>the</strong>Commission with an open invitationfor protection missions and respondpromptly to any request by <strong>the</strong>Commission for authorisation toundertake a protection mission.Any protection mission agreedupon between <strong>the</strong> Commission anda State Party shall be conducted inaccordance with <strong>the</strong> Commission’sGuidelines for Missions.The expenses incurred by a missionundertaken at <strong>the</strong> request <strong>of</strong> any AUorgan shall be borne by such organ.d.Take necessary securitymeasures to protect members<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> delegation and also toguarantee <strong>the</strong> smooth running<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> mission.Rule 82 State Party’s obligationsDuring a protection mission <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> Commission <strong>the</strong> State Partyconcerned shall:a.b.c.Commit itself not to take anykind <strong>of</strong> reprisal against anypersons or entities who provide<strong>the</strong> mission with information,testimony or evidence;Guarantee <strong>the</strong> free movement<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> missionthroughout <strong>the</strong> territory <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>country, in this regard, providecorresponding facilities,including any necessary internalauthorisation;Provide <strong>the</strong> mission <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission with any documentthat <strong>the</strong> latter may considernecessary for <strong>the</strong> preparation <strong>of</strong>its reports;Part Three : Protection Activities29

CHAPTER III CONSIDERATION <strong>OF</strong>COMMUNICATIONSSECTION1 GENERAL PROVISIONRule 83 Records <strong>of</strong> Communications underArticles 47, 48, 49 and 55 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Charter1. The Commission shall receive or noteas <strong>the</strong> case may be, Communicationsor notifications under Articles 47,48, 49 and 55 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Charter.2. The Secretary shall maintain arecord <strong>of</strong> each Communication, witha reference number, <strong>the</strong> names <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>parties, <strong>the</strong> date <strong>of</strong> registration ornotification, and <strong>the</strong> date <strong>of</strong> decisionor closure <strong>of</strong> each Communication.Rule 84 Situation <strong>of</strong> serious or massiveviolation <strong>of</strong> human rights1.2.When <strong>the</strong> Commission considers thatone or more Communications relateto a series <strong>of</strong> serious or massivehuman rights violations, it shallbring <strong>the</strong> matter to <strong>the</strong> attention <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> Assembly <strong>of</strong> Heads <strong>of</strong> State andGovernment <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> African Unionand <strong>the</strong> Peace and Security Council<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> African Union.The Commission may also, inconformity with Article 5 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>African Court Protocol and Rule118(3) <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> present Rules <strong>of</strong>Procedure, refer <strong>the</strong> matter to <strong>the</strong>African Court.SECTION 2 CONSIDERATION <strong>OF</strong>COMMUNICATIONS RECEIVED INCONFORMITY WITH ARTICLE 47 <strong>OF</strong>THE CHARTER: COMMUNICATIONS-NEGOTIATIONS <strong>OF</strong> STATES PARTIESRule 86 Submission <strong>of</strong> a Communication1. A Communication under Article 47 <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> Charter shall be submitted to <strong>the</strong>Chairperson, through <strong>the</strong> Secretary<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission.2. The Communication referred toabove shall be in writing and shallcontain a comprehensive statement<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> facts as well as <strong>the</strong> provisions<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> African Charter alleged to havebeen violated.3. Notification <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Communicationto <strong>the</strong> State Party concerned, <strong>the</strong>Chairperson <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> African UnionCommission and <strong>the</strong> Chairperson<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission shall be donethrough <strong>the</strong> most practical andreliable means.4. The Secretary to <strong>the</strong> Commissionshall, on behalf <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Chairperson,acknowledge receipt, by note verbale,receipt <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Communicationand request <strong>the</strong> parties to keep<strong>the</strong> Commission informed <strong>of</strong>developments which could arisewithin <strong>the</strong> framework <strong>of</strong> ongoingnegotiations.Rule 85 O<strong>the</strong>r interventionsThe Commission may decide to solicitor accept interventions by partieso<strong>the</strong>r than <strong>the</strong> Complainant and <strong>the</strong>Respondent State that it considerscould provide it with informationrelevant to making a decision on aCommunication.30Part Three : Protection Activities

SECTION 3 CONSIDERATION <strong>OF</strong>COMMUNICATIONS RECEIVED UNDERARTICLES 48 & 49 <strong>OF</strong> THE CHARTER:COMMUNICATIONS - COMPLAINTS <strong>OF</strong>STATES PARTIESRule 87 Seizure <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission1. Any Communication under Articles48 and 49 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Charter may besubmitted to <strong>the</strong> Chairperson <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission through <strong>the</strong> Secretaryby an interested State Party.2. The Communication shall containinformation on <strong>the</strong> following or beaccompanied particularly by:a.b.c.Measures taken to resolve <strong>the</strong>issue pursuant to Article 47 <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> African Charter including <strong>the</strong>text <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> initial communicationand any subsequent writtenexplanation from <strong>the</strong> interestedStates Parties relating to <strong>the</strong>issue;Measures taken to exhaustregional or internationalprocedures <strong>of</strong> settlement orgood <strong>of</strong>fices;Any o<strong>the</strong>r procedure <strong>of</strong>international investigation orinternational settlement towhich <strong>the</strong> interested StatesParties have resorted.Rule 88 Consideration <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Communication1.Where, pursuant to Articles 48and 49 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> African Charter, aCommunication is brought before<strong>the</strong> Commission by a State Party,<strong>the</strong> Chairperson <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission,through <strong>the</strong> Secretary, shall givenotice <strong>of</strong> such Communication to<strong>the</strong> State Party against which <strong>the</strong>complaint is made and shall inviteit to submit to <strong>the</strong> Commission2.3.its observations in writing on <strong>the</strong>admissibility <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Communicationwithin ninety (90) days. Theobservations so obtained in writingshall be immediately communicatedto <strong>the</strong> complaining State Party, whichshall respond within ninety (90)days <strong>of</strong> receipt <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> observations.The Commission shall designateone or more <strong>of</strong> its members asRapporteur for <strong>the</strong> Communication.Rapporteurs, through <strong>the</strong> Secretary,may:a. Request relevant informationon matters connected with<strong>the</strong> Communication from <strong>the</strong>States Parties concerned. Suchinformation shall be provided byboth parties within ninety (90)days <strong>of</strong> receipt <strong>of</strong> such request;b. Transmit any informationobtained from one party to <strong>the</strong>o<strong>the</strong>r for comments. The partiesshall be given ninety (90) daysto respond to <strong>the</strong> observationsmade by <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r party.4. Prior to <strong>the</strong> session at which <strong>the</strong>Communication is to be considered,<strong>the</strong> Rapporteurs shall prepare areport on <strong>the</strong> admissibility <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Communication. Such report shallcontain:a. The relevant facts, includingany information or commentsobtained under paragraph 3 <strong>of</strong>this Rule;b. The provision(s) <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> AfricanCharter alleged to have beenviolated in <strong>the</strong> Communication;c. A recommendation onadmissibility and on any o<strong>the</strong>raction to be taken, as <strong>the</strong> casemay require.Part Three : Protection Activities31

5. Before deciding upon <strong>the</strong>admissibility <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Communication,<strong>the</strong> Commission may invite <strong>the</strong> partiesto submit fur<strong>the</strong>r observations inwriting and shall fix a time limit <strong>of</strong>ninety (90) days for <strong>the</strong> submission<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>se observations. The writtenobservations or information shall betransmitted to <strong>the</strong> opposing party.6. The Commission may also allow<strong>the</strong> parties to make additionalobservations orally.Rule 89 Decision on admissibility1.2.The Commission shall consider<strong>the</strong> report <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Rapporteurs,decide on <strong>the</strong> admissibility <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Communication, and shall inform<strong>the</strong> parties accordingly.The Commission shall give reasonsfor its decision on admissibility.Rule 90 Amicable settlement1.2.3.4.When <strong>the</strong> Commission declares thata Communication is admissible, itshall place its good <strong>of</strong>fices at <strong>the</strong>disposal <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> interested StatesParties with <strong>the</strong> objective <strong>of</strong> reachingan amicable settlement under <strong>the</strong>terms <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> African Charter.For <strong>the</strong> purpose <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission’sgood <strong>of</strong>fices, <strong>the</strong> Bureau <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission shall establish contactwith <strong>the</strong> relevant authorities <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>States Parties.The Bureau shall report its findingsand recommendations to <strong>the</strong>Commission at <strong>the</strong> Commission’snext session.The Commission shall <strong>the</strong>reafterdecide on <strong>the</strong> appropriate action5.6.7.8.to take, which may include <strong>the</strong>following:a.b.c.appointing a Rapporteur;convening, in consultation with<strong>the</strong> States Parties concerned,meetings with <strong>the</strong> aim <strong>of</strong>achieving an amicable settlement<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> dispute;Facilitating <strong>the</strong> drafting <strong>of</strong> aMemorandum <strong>of</strong> Understanding,when <strong>the</strong> parties accept <strong>the</strong>principle <strong>of</strong> an amicablesettlement, containing <strong>the</strong> terms<strong>of</strong> settlement being proposedhaving regard to <strong>the</strong> progressmade.In <strong>the</strong> case <strong>of</strong> acceptance <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> draftMemorandum <strong>of</strong> Understanding, <strong>the</strong>States Parties concerned shall sign<strong>the</strong> agreement under <strong>the</strong> auspices <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> Commission.The Rapporteur shall <strong>the</strong>n preparea draft report, which shall besubmitted to <strong>the</strong> Commission foradoption at its next session.When adopted, <strong>the</strong> report shall besent to <strong>the</strong> States Parties concernedand communicated to <strong>the</strong> Assembly.The Commission, through <strong>the</strong>Rapporteur shall <strong>the</strong>n follow-upon monitoring <strong>the</strong> implementation<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> terms <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> agreement andreport on <strong>the</strong> said implementation toeach subsequent Ordinary Session <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> Commission until <strong>the</strong> settlementis concluded. Such a report shallform part <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Activity Report <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> Commission to <strong>the</strong> Assembly32Part Three : Protection Activities

Rule 91 Failure to settle <strong>the</strong> dispute amicably1.2.3.4.If <strong>the</strong> amicable settlement <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>dispute fails, <strong>the</strong> Commission shallrequest <strong>the</strong> States Parties concernedto provide, within a period <strong>of</strong>thirty (30) days, <strong>the</strong>ir writtensubmissions.The Commission shall communicateany information obtained from oneparty to <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r for comments.The States Parties concerned shallbe given thirty (30) days to respond.The Rapporteur shall preparea report containing <strong>the</strong> facts,findings and recommendations forconsideration by <strong>the</strong> Commission.Before adopting <strong>the</strong> report <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Rapporteur, <strong>the</strong> Commission mayconvene a hearing at which it mayallow <strong>the</strong> parties to make additionaloral observations.Rule 92 Decision <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission1.2.3.Within twelve months <strong>of</strong> receipt <strong>of</strong>a Communication, <strong>the</strong> Commissionshall adopt a decision, prepare areport and make recommendations,pursuant to Article 53 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> AfricanCharter following <strong>the</strong> notificationreferred to in Article 48 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>African Charter and <strong>the</strong> presentRules <strong>of</strong> Procedure.The report <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commissionon <strong>the</strong> Communication shall becommunicated to <strong>the</strong> States Partiesconcerned through <strong>the</strong> Secretary.The report <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission on <strong>the</strong>communication shall be submittedas part <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission’s ActivityReport to <strong>the</strong> Assembly.SECTION 4 CONSIDERATION <strong>OF</strong>COMMUNICATIONS RECEIVED INCONFORMITY WITH ARTICLE 55 <strong>OF</strong>THE <strong>AFRICAN</strong> CHARTER: OTHERCOMMUNICATIONSSub-Section 1 General ProvisionsRule 93 Seizure <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission1. A Communication submitted underArticle 55 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> African Charter maybe addressed to <strong>the</strong> Chairperson<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission through <strong>the</strong>Secretary by any natural or legalperson.2. The Secretary shall ensure thatCommunications addressed to <strong>the</strong>Commission contain <strong>the</strong> followinginformation:a.b.c.d.e.f.The name, nationality andsignature <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> person orpersons filing it; or in caseswhere <strong>the</strong> Complainant is anon-governmental entity, <strong>the</strong>name and signature <strong>of</strong> its legalrepresentative(s);Whe<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong> Complainantwishes that his or her identitybe withheld from <strong>the</strong> State;The address for receivingcorrespondence from <strong>the</strong>Commission and, if available,a telephone number, facsimilenumber, and email address;An account <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> act or situationcomplained <strong>of</strong>, specifying <strong>the</strong>place, date and nature <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>alleged violations;The name <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> victim, in acase where he or she is not <strong>the</strong>Complainant;Any public authority that hastaken cognisance <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> fact orsituation alleged;Part Three : Protection Activities33

3.4.5.g. The name <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> State(s)alleged to be responsible for <strong>the</strong>violation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> African Charter,even if no specific reference ismade to <strong>the</strong> article(s) alleged tohave been violated;h. Compliance with <strong>the</strong> periodprescribed in <strong>the</strong> AfricanCharter for submission <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Communication;i. Any steps taken to exhaustdomestic remedies, or if<strong>the</strong> applicant alleges <strong>the</strong>impossibility or unavailability <strong>of</strong>domestic remedies, <strong>the</strong> groundsin support <strong>of</strong> such allegation;andj. An indication that <strong>the</strong> complainthas not been submitted toano<strong>the</strong>r international settlementproceeding as provided in Article56(7) <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> African Charter.In cases where <strong>the</strong> victim hasnot asked for anonymity and isrepresented by an NGO or o<strong>the</strong>ragent, <strong>the</strong> victim shall be <strong>the</strong>Complainant <strong>of</strong> record and <strong>the</strong> fact<strong>of</strong> representation or agency shall berecognized.Where a Communication does notcontain some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> documents andinformation listed in paragraph 2 <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> present Rule, <strong>the</strong> Secretary shallrequest <strong>the</strong> Complainant to furnish<strong>the</strong> same.When <strong>the</strong> Secretary is satisfied thatall necessary information has beenfurnished, it shall transmit <strong>the</strong> fileto <strong>the</strong> Commission which shallmake a decision on seizure on <strong>the</strong>Communication.Rule 94 Representation1.2.States Parties shall be representedbefore <strong>the</strong> Commission by <strong>the</strong>irrepresentatives.Natural or legal persons may ei<strong>the</strong>rappear in person or be representedby <strong>the</strong>ir appointed representativebefore <strong>the</strong> Commission.Rule 95 Order <strong>of</strong> consideration <strong>of</strong>CommunicationsUnless o<strong>the</strong>rwise decided, <strong>the</strong>Commission shall considerCommunications in <strong>the</strong> order inwhich <strong>the</strong>y have been received by<strong>the</strong> Secretary.Rule 96 Joinder and disjoinder <strong>of</strong>Communications1.2.3.If two or more Communicationsagainst <strong>the</strong> same State Party addresssimilar facts, or reveal <strong>the</strong> samepattern <strong>of</strong> violation <strong>of</strong> rights, <strong>the</strong>Commission may join <strong>the</strong>m andconsider <strong>the</strong>m toge<strong>the</strong>r as a singleCommunication.Notwithstanding paragraph 1 <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> present Rule, <strong>the</strong> Commissionmay decide not to join <strong>the</strong>Communications if it is <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>opinion that <strong>the</strong> joinder will notserve <strong>the</strong> interest <strong>of</strong> justice.Where in accordance withparagraph 1 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> present Rule,<strong>the</strong> Commission decides to jointwo or more Communications, itmay subsequently, where it deemsappropriate, decide to disjoin <strong>the</strong>Communications.34Part Three : Protection Activities

Rule 97 Working Groups and Rapporteurs onCommunications1.2.3.The Commission shall appoint aRapporteur for each Communicationfrom among its members.The Commission may also establishone or more working groups toconsider questions <strong>of</strong> seizure,admissibility and <strong>the</strong> merits <strong>of</strong>any Communication(s) and tomake recommendations to <strong>the</strong>Commission.The Commission shall consider<strong>the</strong> recommendations <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Rapporteur(s) and/or <strong>the</strong> WorkingGroup(s) and make a decision.Rule 98 Provisional Measures1.2.3.At any time after <strong>the</strong> receipt <strong>of</strong>a Communication and before adetermination on <strong>the</strong> merits, <strong>the</strong>Commission may, on its initiativeor at <strong>the</strong> request <strong>of</strong> a party to <strong>the</strong>Communication, request that <strong>the</strong>State concerned adopt ProvisionalMeasures to prevent irreparableharm to <strong>the</strong> victim or victims <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>alleged violation as urgently as <strong>the</strong>situation demands.If <strong>the</strong> Commission is not in sessionat <strong>the</strong> time that a request forProvisional Measures is received, <strong>the</strong>Chairperson, or in his or her absence,<strong>the</strong> Vice-Chairperson, shall take <strong>the</strong>decision on <strong>the</strong> Commission’s behalfand shall so inform members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission;After <strong>the</strong> request for ProvisionalMeasures has been transmitted to<strong>the</strong> State Party, <strong>the</strong> Commission shallsend a copy <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> letter requestingProvisional Measures to <strong>the</strong> victim,<strong>the</strong> Assembly, <strong>the</strong> Peace and Security4.5.Council, and <strong>the</strong> African UnionCommission.The Commission shall request <strong>the</strong>State Party concerned to reportback on <strong>the</strong> implementation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Provisional Measures requested.Such information shall be submittedwithin fifteen (15) days <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>receipt <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> request for ProvisionalMeasures;The granting <strong>of</strong> such measures and<strong>the</strong>ir adoption by <strong>the</strong> State Partyconcerned shall not constitute aprejudgment on <strong>the</strong> merits <strong>of</strong> aCommunication.Rule 99 Procedure for hearings onCommunications1.2.3.At <strong>the</strong> initiative <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commissionor at <strong>the</strong> request <strong>of</strong> one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>parties, a hearing may be held on aCommunication.During hearings, <strong>the</strong> Commissionshall permit oral presentations by<strong>the</strong> parties on new or additionalfacts or arguments or in answerto any questions that it may haveconcerning all issues relating to <strong>the</strong>Communication.During a hearing on aCommunication or at any stage priorto <strong>the</strong> conclusion <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> matter, <strong>the</strong>following may be considered:a.b.c.d.The verification <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> facts;Initiation <strong>of</strong> a friendlysettlement;Consideration on <strong>the</strong> merits; orAny o<strong>the</strong>r matter pertinent to<strong>the</strong> Communication.Part Three : Protection Activities35

4.5.6.7.8.9.10.A party requesting a hearing, shalldo so at least ninety (90) days before<strong>the</strong> beginning <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> session in which<strong>the</strong> Communication is going to beconsidered.The Rapporteur <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Communication, in consultationwith <strong>the</strong> Bureau <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission,shall decide upon <strong>the</strong> request.The Secretary shall inform bothparties <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> decision on <strong>the</strong>granting <strong>of</strong> a hearing within 15 days<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> decision referred to underparagraph 5 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> present Rule.If <strong>the</strong> request for a hearing isaccepted, <strong>the</strong> notification <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>hearing shall include <strong>the</strong> dates andvenue <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> session, and period <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> session during which <strong>the</strong> hearingis likely to take place.Hearings on Communications before<strong>the</strong> Commission shall be held incamera. Unless <strong>the</strong> Commissiondecides o<strong>the</strong>rwise, no person shallbe admitted, o<strong>the</strong>r than:a.b.c.The parties to <strong>the</strong> Communicationor <strong>the</strong> representatives dulymandated;Any person being heard by <strong>the</strong>Commission as a witness or asan expert;The persons referred to in Rule33 (2) or any person whom <strong>the</strong>Commission may decide to inviteunder Article 46 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> AfricanCharter.When it considers it in <strong>the</strong> interest <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> proper conduct <strong>of</strong> a hearing, <strong>the</strong>Commission may limit <strong>the</strong> number <strong>of</strong>parties’ representatives or adviserswho may appear.The parties shall inform <strong>the</strong>Commission at least ten days before<strong>the</strong> date <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> opening <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> hearing<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> names and functions <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>persons who will appear on <strong>the</strong>irbehalf at <strong>the</strong> hearing.11. The Chairperson or his or herrepresentative shall preside over <strong>the</strong>hearing, and shall verify <strong>the</strong> identity<strong>of</strong> any persons before he/she isheard.12. Any member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission mayput questions to <strong>the</strong> parties or to <strong>the</strong>persons heard with <strong>the</strong> permission<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Chairperson.13. Parties to <strong>the</strong> communication or<strong>the</strong>ir representatives may, with <strong>the</strong>permission <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Chairperson, putquestions to any person heard.14. The Secretary is responsible for <strong>the</strong>production <strong>of</strong> verbatim records <strong>of</strong>hearings before <strong>the</strong> Commission.Such records are internal workingdocuments <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission. Ifa party to <strong>the</strong> communication sorequests, <strong>the</strong> Commission shallprovide a copy <strong>of</strong> such records unless,in <strong>the</strong> view <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission, doingso could create a danger to personsheard.15. The State Party to <strong>the</strong>Communication shall make anundertaking not to victimise orto take any reprisals against <strong>the</strong>Complainant and/or any personrepresenting <strong>the</strong>m or <strong>the</strong>ir familymembers, or witnesses because<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir statements before <strong>the</strong>Commission.16. The Commission may receive amicuscuriae brief on communication.During <strong>the</strong> hearing <strong>of</strong> aCommunication in which amicuscuriae brief has been filed, <strong>the</strong>Commission, where necessary shallpermit <strong>the</strong> author <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> brief or<strong>the</strong> representative to address <strong>the</strong>Commission.36Part Three : Protection Activities

Rule 100 Witnesses and experts1.The Commission shall determine, atits own initiative, or at <strong>the</strong> request<strong>of</strong> one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> parties, when to callindependent experts and witnesses<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> parties to <strong>the</strong> Communicationwhom it considers necessary tohear in a given case. A request tocall a witness by one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> partiesshall not be rejected unless <strong>the</strong>Commission has good reasonsto believe that such a requestconstitutes an abuse <strong>of</strong> process.The invitation to <strong>the</strong> hearing shallindicate:a.b.The parties to <strong>the</strong>Communication;A summary <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> facts orissues in relation to which <strong>the</strong>Commission desires to hear <strong>the</strong>witness or expert.2. Any such person may, if <strong>the</strong>y donot have sufficient knowledge<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> working languages <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission, be authorised by <strong>the</strong>Chairperson to speak in any o<strong>the</strong>rlanguage to be interpreted in one<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Working Languages <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission.3. After establishing <strong>the</strong> identity <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>witnesses or experts <strong>the</strong> Chairperson<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission shall request<strong>the</strong>m to take <strong>the</strong> following oath:a. For witnesses “ I swear/affirmthat I will speak <strong>the</strong> truth, <strong>the</strong>whole truth and nothing but <strong>the</strong>truth.”b. For <strong>the</strong> experts “ I swear/affirmthat my statement will be inaccordance with my knowledge,findings and sincere belief.”4. The State Party to <strong>the</strong> communicationshall give an undertaking not tovictimise or persecute <strong>the</strong> witnessesor experts, or carry out reprisalsagainst <strong>the</strong>m or <strong>the</strong>ir family membersbecause <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir statements orexpert opinions given before <strong>the</strong>Commission.Rule 101 Inability <strong>of</strong> a member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission to take part in <strong>the</strong> examination <strong>of</strong>a Communication1. A member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission shallnot be present and take part in <strong>the</strong>consideration <strong>of</strong> a Communication ifhe or she:2.a.b.c.d.e.is a national <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> State Partyconcerned;has any personal interest in <strong>the</strong>case;is engaged in any political oradministrative activity or anypr<strong>of</strong>essional activity that isincompatible with his or herindependence or impartiality;has participated in anycapacity in any decision at <strong>the</strong>national level in relation to <strong>the</strong>Communication; orhas expressed publicly opinionsthat might be interpreted asreflecting lack <strong>of</strong> impartiality withrespect to <strong>the</strong> Communication.Any question that may arise underparagraph 1 above shall be decidedby <strong>the</strong> Commission without <strong>the</strong>participation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> memberconcerned.Part Three : Protection Activities37

Rule 102 Withdrawal <strong>of</strong> a MemberRule 104 Legal aidIf, for any reason, a Member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission considers that he orshe should not take part or continueto take part in <strong>the</strong> consideration <strong>of</strong>a Communication, he or she shallinform <strong>the</strong> Chairperson <strong>of</strong> his or herdecision to withdraw.Rule103 Preliminary objection1.2.3.4.A party who intends to raise apreliminary objection at <strong>the</strong> stage<strong>of</strong> admissibility or before <strong>the</strong>Commission takes a decision on <strong>the</strong>merits <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Communication, shalldo so not latter than thirty (30) daysafter receiving notification to submiton admissibility or on <strong>the</strong> merits.The Commission shall communicate<strong>the</strong> objection to <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r partywithin fifteen (15) days.A party who intends to respond to apreliminary objection raised by <strong>the</strong>o<strong>the</strong>r party shall submit a writtenresponse not later than thirty (30)days after <strong>the</strong> Secretary to <strong>the</strong>Commission has transmitted <strong>the</strong>objection to that party.If no response to a preliminaryobjection is received within <strong>the</strong>stipulated period, <strong>the</strong> Commissionshall proceed with <strong>the</strong> consideration<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> preliminary objection on <strong>the</strong>basis <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> available information.When <strong>the</strong> Commission receives apreliminary objection, it shall first <strong>of</strong>all determine this objection beforeany o<strong>the</strong>r question relating to <strong>the</strong>Communication.1.2.3.The Commission may, ei<strong>the</strong>r at<strong>the</strong> request <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> author <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>communication or at its owninitiative, facilitate access to freelegal aid to <strong>the</strong> author in connectionwith <strong>the</strong> representation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> case;Free legal aid shall only befacilitated where <strong>the</strong> Commission isconvinced:a.b.That it is essential for <strong>the</strong> properdischarge <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission’sduties, and to ensure equality <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> parties before it; andThe author <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Communicationhas no sufficient means to meetall or part <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> costs involved;In case <strong>of</strong> urgency or when <strong>the</strong>Commission is not in session, itsChairperson may exercise <strong>the</strong> powersconferred on <strong>the</strong> Commission by thisRule. As soon as <strong>the</strong> Commissionis in session, any action that hasbeen taken under this paragraphshall be brought to its attention forconfirmation.38Part Three : Protection Activities

Sub-Section 2 Procedure On AdmissibilityRule 107 Decision on AdmissibilityRule 1051.2.3.4.Submissions <strong>of</strong> observationsWhen <strong>the</strong> Commission has decidedto be seized <strong>of</strong> a Communicationpursuant to <strong>the</strong> present Rules, itshall promptly transmit a copy <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> complaint to <strong>the</strong> RespondentState. It shall simultaneouslyinform <strong>the</strong> Complainant <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>decision on seizure, and request <strong>the</strong>Complainant to present evidenceand arguments on admissibilitywithin two months.Upon receipt <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Complainant’sobservations on admissibility, <strong>the</strong>Secretary shall transmit a copy to<strong>the</strong> respondent state and request <strong>the</strong>latter to make a written submission,containing its arguments andevidence on admissibility, withintwo months <strong>of</strong> its receipt <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> Commission’s request. TheSecretariat shall, within a week <strong>of</strong>receipt <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> state’s submission,provide <strong>the</strong> Complainant with acopy.Upon receiving <strong>the</strong> observations<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Respondent State onAdmissibility, <strong>the</strong> Complainant maycomment on <strong>the</strong> observations withinone month <strong>of</strong> receipt.In conformity with Rule 88(6), <strong>the</strong>Commission, while determiningAdmissibility may ask <strong>the</strong> parties topresent supplementary observationsin an oral hearing.1.2.3.4.Once it has considered <strong>the</strong> positions<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> parties, <strong>the</strong> Commission shallmake a decision on <strong>the</strong> admissibility<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Communication and <strong>the</strong>Secretary shall inform <strong>the</strong> partiesaccordingly.Once a Communication has beendeclared admissible, <strong>the</strong> Commissionshall inform <strong>the</strong> parties and defer <strong>the</strong>Communication to <strong>the</strong> next sessionfor consideration on <strong>the</strong> merit.The Commission’s decisions on <strong>the</strong>inadmissibility <strong>of</strong> Communicationsshall be notified to <strong>the</strong> parties andattached to its Activity Report.If <strong>the</strong> Commission has declared aCommunication inadmissible thisdecision may be reviewed at a laterdate, upon <strong>the</strong> submission <strong>of</strong> newevidence, contained in a writtenrequest to <strong>the</strong> Commission by <strong>the</strong>author.Rule 106 Admissibility <strong>of</strong> CommunicationsThe Communications shallcomply with <strong>the</strong> requirements <strong>of</strong>Admissibility under Article 56 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Charter which are cumulative.Part Three : Protection Activities39

Sub-Section 3 Procedure for <strong>the</strong> Consideration<strong>of</strong> Communications on <strong>the</strong> MeritsRule 108 Proceedings1. Once a Communication has beendeclared admissible, <strong>the</strong> Commissionshall set a period <strong>of</strong> sixty (60) daysfor <strong>the</strong> Complainant to submitobservations on <strong>the</strong> merits. Theseobservations shall be transmittedto <strong>the</strong> State Party concerned for<strong>the</strong> submission <strong>of</strong> its observationswithin sixty (60) days;2. Any written statements submittedby <strong>the</strong> State Party concerned shallbe communicated, through <strong>the</strong>Secretary, to <strong>the</strong> Complainant, whomay submit any additional writteninformation or observations withinthirty (30) days. This time limitcannot be extended.Rule 109 Amicable settlement1.2.3.4.At any stage <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> examination <strong>of</strong> aCommunication, <strong>the</strong> Commission, onits own initiative or at <strong>the</strong> request <strong>of</strong>any <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> parties concerned, may<strong>of</strong>fer its good <strong>of</strong>fices for an amicablesettlement between <strong>the</strong> parties.The amicable settlement procedureshall be initiated, and may onlycontinue, with <strong>the</strong> consent <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>parties.If it deems it necessary, <strong>the</strong>Commission may entrust to oneor more <strong>of</strong> its members <strong>the</strong> task <strong>of</strong>facilitating negotiations between <strong>the</strong>parties.The Commission may terminateits intervention in <strong>the</strong> amicablesettlement procedure at <strong>the</strong> request<strong>of</strong> one or both parties, within aperiod <strong>of</strong> six months, renewable5.6.7.once, when an amicable settlementis not reached.When <strong>the</strong> Commission receivesinformation from parties that anamicable settlement has beenreached, <strong>the</strong> Commission shall ensurethat such amicable settlement:a.b.c.Complies with or respects <strong>the</strong>human rights and fundamentalfreedoms enshrined in <strong>the</strong>African Charter and o<strong>the</strong>rapplicable instruments;Indicates that <strong>the</strong> victim <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>alleged human rights violationor, his/her successors, as <strong>the</strong> casemay be, have consented to <strong>the</strong>terms <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> settlement and aresatisfied with <strong>the</strong> conditions;Includes an undertaking by <strong>the</strong>parties to implement <strong>the</strong> terms<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> settlement.When <strong>the</strong> Commission is satisfiedthat <strong>the</strong> requirements <strong>of</strong> paragraph5 have been complied with, itshall prepare a report which shallcontain:a.b.c.d.A brief statement <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> facts;An explanation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> settlementreached;Recommendations by <strong>the</strong>Commission for steps to be takenby <strong>the</strong> parties to ensure <strong>the</strong>maintenance <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> settlement;Steps to be taken by <strong>the</strong>Commission to monitor <strong>the</strong>parties’ compliance with <strong>the</strong>terms <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> settlement.If <strong>the</strong> terms <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> amicablesettlement are not implementedwithin six months, or when <strong>the</strong>terms do not comply with <strong>the</strong>requirements under paragraph 540Part Three : Protection Activities

<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> present Rule <strong>the</strong> Commissionshall at <strong>the</strong> request <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Complainant continue to process<strong>the</strong> Communication in accordancewith <strong>the</strong> relevant provisions <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Charter and <strong>the</strong> relevant Rules in <strong>the</strong>present Rules.Rule 110 Decision on <strong>the</strong> merits1.2.3.4.The Commission, after deliberationon <strong>the</strong> submissions <strong>of</strong> both parties,shall adopt a decision on <strong>the</strong> merits<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Communication.The Commission shall deliberate onCommunications in private, and allaspects <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> discussions shall beconfidential.The decision <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission shallbe signed by <strong>the</strong> Chairperson and <strong>the</strong>Secretary, shall remain confidentialand shall not be transmitted to<strong>the</strong> parties until its publication isauthorized by <strong>the</strong> Assembly.The decision <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commissionshall be posted on <strong>the</strong> Commission’swebsite after its publication isauthorized by <strong>the</strong> Assembly.Rule 111 Review <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> decision <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission on <strong>the</strong> merits1.2.Once <strong>the</strong> Commission has taken adecision on <strong>the</strong> merits, it may, on itsown initiative or upon <strong>the</strong> writtenrequest <strong>of</strong> one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> parties, review<strong>the</strong> decision.In determining whe<strong>the</strong>r to reviewits decision on <strong>the</strong> merits, <strong>the</strong>Commission shall satisfy itself <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>following:a.that <strong>the</strong> request is based upon<strong>the</strong> discovery <strong>of</strong> some fact <strong>of</strong>such a nature as to be a decisive3.b.c.factor, which fact was not knownto <strong>the</strong> Commission and <strong>the</strong> partyrequesting <strong>the</strong> review, providedthat such ignorance was not dueto negligence;that <strong>the</strong> application for reviewis made within six months <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>discovery <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> new fact;any o<strong>the</strong>r compelling reason orsituation that <strong>the</strong> Commissionmay deem appropriate orrelevant to justify review <strong>of</strong> aCommunication, with a viewto ensure fairness, justice andrespect for human and peoples’rights.No application for review may bemade after three years from <strong>the</strong> date<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> decision.Rule 112 Follow-up on <strong>the</strong> recommendations <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> Commission1.2.3.After <strong>the</strong> consideration <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission’s Activity Report by<strong>the</strong> Assembly, <strong>the</strong> Secretary shallnotify <strong>the</strong> parties within thirty (30)days that <strong>the</strong>y may disseminate <strong>the</strong>decision.In <strong>the</strong> event <strong>of</strong> a decision against aState Party, <strong>the</strong> parties shall inform<strong>the</strong> Commission in writing, withinone hundred and eighty (180) days<strong>of</strong> being informed <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> decision inaccordance with paragraph one, <strong>of</strong>all measures, if any, taken or beingtaken by <strong>the</strong> State Party to implement<strong>the</strong> decision <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission.Within ninety (90) days <strong>of</strong> receipt<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> State’s written response,<strong>the</strong> Commission may invite <strong>the</strong>State concerned to submit fur<strong>the</strong>rinformation on <strong>the</strong> measures it hastaken in response to its decision.Part Three : Protection Activities41

4.5.6.7.8.9.If no response is received from<strong>the</strong> State, <strong>the</strong> Commission maysend a reminder to <strong>the</strong> State Partyconcerned to submit its informationwithin ninety (90) days from <strong>the</strong>date <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> reminder.The Rapporteur for <strong>the</strong>Communication, or any o<strong>the</strong>rmember <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commissiondesignated for this purpose, shallmonitor <strong>the</strong> measures taken by<strong>the</strong> State Party to give effect to <strong>the</strong>Commission’s recommendations oneach Communication.The Rapporteur may make suchcontacts and take such actionas may be appropriate to fulfillhis/her assignment includingrecommendations for fur<strong>the</strong>r actionby <strong>the</strong> Commission as may benecessary.At each Ordinary Session, <strong>the</strong>Rapporteur shall present <strong>the</strong> reportduring <strong>the</strong> Public Session on <strong>the</strong>implementation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission’srecommendations.The Commission shall draw <strong>the</strong>attention <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Sub-Committee<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Permanent RepresentativesCommittee and <strong>the</strong> ExecutiveCouncil on <strong>the</strong> Implementation <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> Decisions <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> African Union,to any situations <strong>of</strong> non-compliancewith <strong>the</strong> Commission’s decisions.The Commission shall includeinformation on any follow-upactivities in its Activity Report.Rule 113 Extension <strong>of</strong> time1.2.Subject to <strong>the</strong> provisions <strong>of</strong> Rule111, when a deadline is fixed for aparticular submission, ei<strong>the</strong>r partymay apply to <strong>the</strong> Commission forextension <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> period stipulated.The Commission may grant anextension which shall not exceedone (1) month, and shall not grantmore than one extension per partyfor any given submission.42Part Three : Protection Activities

Part FourRELATIONSHIPS WITH THE <strong>AFRICAN</strong> COURTCHAPTER I GENERAL PROVISIONSRule 114 Complementarity with <strong>the</strong> AfricanCourt1.2.Pursuant to Article 2 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Protocol,<strong>the</strong> Court shall complement<strong>the</strong> protective mandate <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission as provided for inArticles 30 and 45 (2) <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> AfricanCharter.The complementarity relationshipbetween <strong>the</strong> Commission and <strong>the</strong>Court is set out and organized byArticles 5, 6(1) & (3), 8 and 33 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Protocol.Rule 115 Consultations with <strong>the</strong> Court1. In pursuance <strong>of</strong> Article 2 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Protocol, <strong>the</strong> Commission shall meetwith <strong>the</strong> Court at least once a yearand whenever necessary to ensuregood working relationship between<strong>the</strong> two institutions.2. The Bureau <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission maymeet <strong>the</strong> Bureau <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Court as<strong>of</strong>ten as necessary to undertake anyfunctions assigned to <strong>the</strong>m by <strong>the</strong>two institutions.3. The conclusions <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> meetings <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> Bureaus shall be considered andif adopted by <strong>the</strong> Commission, shallbe included in <strong>the</strong> Activity Report.4. The Commission shall consult with<strong>the</strong> Court before <strong>the</strong> modification<strong>of</strong> any <strong>of</strong> its Rules relating to <strong>the</strong>irrelationship.Rule 116 Interpretation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Charter by <strong>the</strong>Commission1.2.If <strong>the</strong> Commission is requested tointerpret <strong>the</strong> Charter under Article45(3), it shall immediately inform<strong>the</strong> President <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Court.A copy <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> interpretation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Charter by <strong>the</strong> Commission shall besent to <strong>the</strong> President <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Court assoon as it is adopted.Rule 117 Advisory OpinionThe Commission may request tobe heard by <strong>the</strong> Court upon beingnotified by <strong>the</strong> Court <strong>of</strong> a requestfor an Advisory Opinion pursuant toArticle 4(1) <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Protocol.Rule 118 Seizure <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Court1.If <strong>the</strong> Commission has takena decision with respect to acommunication submitted underArticles 48, 49 or 55 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Charterand considers that <strong>the</strong> State has notcomplied or is unwilling to complywith its recommendations in respect<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> communication within <strong>the</strong>Part Four : Relationships With The African Court43

2.3.4.period stated in Rule 112(2), it maysubmit <strong>the</strong> communication to <strong>the</strong>Court pursuant to Article 5 (1) (a) <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> Protocol and inform <strong>the</strong> partiesaccordingly.If <strong>the</strong> Commission has made arequest for Provisional Measuresagainst a State Party in accordancewith Rule 98, and considers that<strong>the</strong> State has not complied with <strong>the</strong>Provisional Measures requested, <strong>the</strong>Commission may pursuant to Article5 (1) (a) <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Protocol, refer <strong>the</strong>communication to <strong>the</strong> Court andinform <strong>the</strong> Complainant and <strong>the</strong>State concerned.The Commission may, pursuant toRule 84(2) submit a communicationbefore <strong>the</strong> Court against a StateParty if a situation that, in itsview, constitutes one <strong>of</strong> serious ormassive violations <strong>of</strong> human rightsas provided for under Article 58 <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> African Charter, has come to itsattention.The Commission may seize <strong>the</strong> Courtat any stage <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> examination<strong>of</strong> a communication if it deemsnecessary.rule 119 Admissibility under Article 6 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Protocol1.Where, pursuant to Article 6 <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> Protocol, <strong>the</strong> Commission isrequested to give its opinion, on <strong>the</strong>admissibility <strong>of</strong> a communicationpending before <strong>the</strong> Court orwhere <strong>the</strong> Court has transferred acommunication to <strong>the</strong> Commission,it shall consider <strong>the</strong> admissibility<strong>of</strong> this matter in accordance withArticle 56 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Charter and Rules105, 106 and 107 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> presentRules.2.Upon conclusion <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> examination<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> admissibility <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>communication referred to itunder Article 6 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Protocol,<strong>the</strong> Commission shall immediatelytransmit its opinion or its decisionon <strong>the</strong> admissibility to <strong>the</strong> Court.Rule 120 Representation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commissionbefore <strong>the</strong> CourtWhen <strong>the</strong> Commission decides tosubmit a communication to <strong>the</strong>Court, pursuant to Article 5(1) (a)<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Protocol and Rule 118, it mayappoint one or more Commissionersto represent it before <strong>the</strong> Court. TheCommissioner(s) so designatedshall be assisted by one or moreLegal Officer(s) <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commission’sSecretariat and/or experts who shallbe designated or appointed by <strong>the</strong>Commission.Rule 121 Content <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> application and file to<strong>the</strong> Court1.2.When, in pursuance <strong>of</strong> Article 5 (1)(a) <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Protocol and Rule 120 <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> present Rules, <strong>the</strong> Commissiondecides to bring a communicationbefore <strong>the</strong> Court, it shall submitan application seizing <strong>the</strong> Courtin accordance with <strong>the</strong> CourtRules, accompanied by a summary<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> communication and <strong>the</strong>communication file.The summary shall include <strong>the</strong>names <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> representatives <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> Commission, <strong>the</strong> facts <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>44Part Four : Relationships With The African Court

3.4.communication and all <strong>the</strong> relevantprovisions <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> African Charterwhich have been violated.Where necessary, <strong>the</strong> summary shallincludea. The date on which <strong>the</strong>Commission adopted itsdecision, or adopted and sent<strong>the</strong> request for ProvisionalMeasures;b. The facts which reveal seriousor massive violations;c. The date on which <strong>the</strong> decision <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> Commission was transmittedto <strong>the</strong> State Party concerned;d. Information relating to <strong>the</strong>deadline stipulated under Rule113 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> present rules ; ande. The parties to <strong>the</strong> proceedingsbefore <strong>the</strong> Commission, ifapplicable.The communication file along with<strong>the</strong> summary to be transmittedto <strong>the</strong> Court shall contain all <strong>the</strong>evidence, documents or informationconcerning <strong>the</strong> communicationincluding documents relating toany attempts to secure a friendlysettlement, and <strong>the</strong> Commission’sdecision.2.<strong>the</strong> Commission shall transmit <strong>the</strong>original <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> communication file.The Secretary shall also immediatelynotify <strong>the</strong> Parties who were before<strong>the</strong> Commission about <strong>the</strong> referral<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> communication to <strong>the</strong> Courtand shall transmit copies <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>communication file and <strong>the</strong> summary<strong>the</strong>re<strong>of</strong>.Rule 123 Lis PendensThe commission shall not considerany communication relating to acommunication still pending before<strong>the</strong> court, unless <strong>the</strong> communicationhas been formally withdrawn.Rule 122 Transmission <strong>of</strong> communications to<strong>the</strong> Court and notification <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> parties1.The Secretary <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commissionshall transmit to <strong>the</strong> Court<strong>the</strong> application signed by <strong>the</strong>Chairperson, <strong>the</strong> certified copy <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> communication file and <strong>the</strong>summary referred to in Rule 121<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> present rules in conformitywith <strong>the</strong> Rules <strong>of</strong> Procedure <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Court. At <strong>the</strong> request <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Court,Part Four : Relationships With The African Court45

Part FiveRELATIONSHIP WITH OTHER <strong>AFRICAN</strong> UNION ORGANS,INSTITUTIONS, AND PROGRAMMESRule 124 General rule1.The Commission, in fulfilling itsmandate, shall establish formalrelations <strong>of</strong> cooperation, includingmeetings as necessary, withall African Union organs, andinstitutions and programmes thathave a human rights element in <strong>the</strong>irmandate.2. The Bureau <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commissionmay, in addition, meet with <strong>the</strong>bureaux <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>se organs, institutionsand programmes as <strong>of</strong>ten as maybe required to ensure <strong>the</strong>ir goodworking relationship.Rule 126 Cooperation with <strong>the</strong> African UnionCommission1.2.Prior to <strong>the</strong> appointment <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Secretary or any staff member <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> Commission’s Secretariat, <strong>the</strong>African Union Commission shallconsult with <strong>the</strong> Bureau <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission.After transmitting <strong>the</strong> report on <strong>the</strong>evaluation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> performance <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Secretary in accordance with Rule13(3) and 14(2) (c) <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> presentRule <strong>of</strong> Procedure, <strong>the</strong> Chairperson<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> African Union Commissionmay invite <strong>the</strong> Bureau <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> AfricanCommission for discussion.Rule 125 Relationship with <strong>the</strong> policy organs<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> African Union1.2.When submitting its Activity Reportin accordance with Article 54 <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>African Charter, <strong>the</strong> Commissionmay request <strong>the</strong> Assembly to takenecessary measures to implementits decisions.The Commission shall bring all itsrecommendations to <strong>the</strong> attention<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Sub-Committee on <strong>the</strong>Implementation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Decisions <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> African Union <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> PermanentRepresentatives Committee.46Part Five: Relationship With O<strong>the</strong>r African Union Organs, Institutions, and Programmes

Part SixFINAL PROVISIONSRule 127 InterpretationIn conformity with Article 45(3) <strong>of</strong><strong>the</strong> Charter, <strong>the</strong> Commission shallinterpret <strong>the</strong> Charter.Rule 128 Amendment <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Rules <strong>of</strong>ProcedureThe present Rules <strong>of</strong> Procedure maybe amended by <strong>the</strong> Commission.Rule 131 SuspensionThe Commission may suspendtemporarily, <strong>the</strong> application <strong>of</strong>any Rule <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> present Rules <strong>of</strong>Procedure, on condition that such asuspension shall not be incompatiblewith any applicable decision <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Commission or <strong>the</strong> Assembly or withany relevant provision <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Charterand that <strong>the</strong> proposal shall have beensubmitted 24 hours in advance.Rule 129 Transitional provisionsUpon <strong>the</strong> entry into force <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Protocol on <strong>the</strong> Statute <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> AfricanCourt <strong>of</strong> Justice and Human Rights,all references in <strong>the</strong> present Rulesto provisions <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> African CourtProtocol or <strong>the</strong> African Court shallbe deemed, where applicable, torefer to <strong>the</strong> relevant provisions <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>Protocol on <strong>the</strong> Statute <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> AfricanCourt <strong>of</strong> Justice and Human Rightsor to <strong>the</strong> African Court <strong>of</strong> Justice andHuman Rights, respectively.Rule 132ProcedureEntry into force <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Rules <strong>of</strong>The present Rules <strong>of</strong> Procedure shallenter into force three months after<strong>the</strong>ir adoption by a simple majority<strong>of</strong> members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Commissionpresent and voting at a sessionwhere <strong>the</strong> Rules are scheduled to beadopted.Rule 130 Non-retroactivityThe present Rules <strong>of</strong> Procedure shallnot have any retrospective effect.Part Six : Final Provisions47

Address <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> African Commission:No 31 Bijilo Annex Layout, Kombo NorthDistrict, Western RegionPO Box 673, BanjulThe GambiaTel: +220 441 0505+220 441 0506Fax: +220 441 0504Email: secretary@achpr.orgWebsite: www.achpr.orgAddress <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> African Court:Dodoma RoadPO Box 6274,ArushaTanzaniaTel : +255 732979509/9551Fax : +255 732979503Email :registrar@africa-court.orgpresident<strong>of</strong>fice@african-court.orgWebsite: www.african-court.orgAddress <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> AU CommissionRooselvelt Street (Old Airport area)W21 K19PO Box 3224, Addis AbabaEthiopiaTel: +251 115 517700Fax: +251 115 517844Website: www.africa-union.org48