The Pan-African Parliament (PAP), the legislative arm of the African Union, has elected a new Bureau to steer the affairs of the continental body for the next term, in a development seen as significant for regional representation and institutional reform across Africa.
The elections took place during an extraordinary session of the Parliament in Midrand, South Africa, where delegates from member states voted to fill the top leadership positions of the institution.
Full List of the New Bureau Members
The newly elected Bureau is made up of representatives from Africa’s five regions:
President: Fateh Boutbig (Algeria / North Africa)
First Vice President: Hon. Dr. Ashebir Gayo (East Africa / Ethiopia)
Second Vice President: Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings (West Africa / Ghana)
Third Vice President: Hon. Djidda Mamar Mahamat (Central Africa / Chad)
Fourth Vice President: Hon. Arlete Da Visitacao (Southern Africa / Angola)*
*Regional allocations are based on the AU rotational framework.
Dr. Zanetor Rawlings, Ghana’s Member of Parliament for Klottey Korle and daughter of former President Jerry John Rawlings, secured the Second Vice President position after a decisive vote, strengthening Ghana’s presence within continental institutions.
Why the Pan-African Parliament Matters
Established in 2004, the Pan-African Parliament was created to give African citizens a voice in the governance and development of the continent. It serves as a platform where lawmakers from African Union member states debate issues affecting Africa and promote common policies.
Although the Parliament currently has advisory and consultative powers rather than full legislative authority, it plays an important role in:
Promoting democracy, human rights, and good governance
Encouraging peace and conflict resolution
Supporting continental integration under the African Union Agenda 2063
Harmonising laws and policies among member states
Giving citizens indirect representation in AU decision-making through national lawmakers
New Leadership, New Expectations
The election of a fresh Bureau comes at a time when calls are growing for the Pan-African Parliament to be granted stronger legislative powers and greater relevance in solving continental challenges such as insecurity, unemployment, trade barriers, and unconstitutional changes of government.
Observers say the inclusion of younger voices and stronger female representation in the new leadership could help modernise the institution and reconnect it with ordinary Africans.
For Ghana, Dr. Zanetor Rawlings’ election is being viewed as a diplomatic gain that could enhance the country’s influence in debates on governance, youth empowerment, gender equity, and regional cooperation.
Looking Ahead
The new Bureau is expected to lead reforms, improve parliamentary efficiency, and strengthen the visibility of the Pan-African Parliament within the African Union system.
Its success, however, will depend on whether member states are willing to empower the institution beyond symbolic politics and allow it to become a more effective voice for the people of Africa.
Source: Clement Akoloh/parliamentnews360.com
