The constitutional courts of Gabon and Togo are strengthening their collaboration, with plans to combine resources and exchange practical knowledge. The heads of these two high courts, Dieudonné Aba’a Owono and Professor Djobo-Babakane Coulibaley, established the foundation for this cooperation yesterday at the Constitution Palace in Libreville, after the Togolese delegation arrived for a working and friendship visit.
This initiative builds on the strong ties between the two countries’ leaders, President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema and Togo’s Council President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, who share common views on several regional and international matters.
According to both chief justices, the closer relationship between their institutions is timely, given both long-standing and emerging challenges. Constitutional justice today must respond to the needs of an intergenerational society and protect the dignity, rights, and freedoms of future generations.
“Dialogue between our courts is not only beneficial for our institutions—it serves Africa as a whole. It is no longer a simple gesture of constitutional courtesy but a necessity for strengthening the rule of law on our continent,” said Dieudonné Aba’a Owono. He expressed hope that this visit marks the beginning of a lasting partnership, allowing constitutional judges from both nations to collaborate, share their analyses, legal precedents, and concerns.
Professor Djobo-Babakane Coulibaley likewise emphasised the value of the endeavour. “In a time of global turmoil when the stature of the rule of law is declining in many parts of the world, the dialogue between our jurisdictions gives us a chance to reaffirm the shared values expressed through the rule of law,” he noted. The Togolese delegation’s stay concludes on Wednesday.
