Story by Ian Zvoma, News Editor
PAN African Parliament (PAP) President, Chief Fortune Charumbira has called for the institution to be given due recognition by the African Union (AU) in its quest to drive inclusive and sustainable socio-economic development on the continent.
The two-week long engagement of the Pan African Parliament Permanent Committees ended in Midrand, South Africa this Friday with the focus on critical reforms for the AU organ to effectively discharge its mandate.
This includes ratifying the Malabo protocol meant to give the PAP legislative powers.
The colourful closing ceremony of the Pan African Parliament permanent committees sitting included the commemoration of the PAP Day which was spiced up by African song and dance.
Not to be distracted from key issues, the event also included candid yet constructive debate meant to align the mandate of the African Union and its organs such as the PAP which are being hamstrung by lack of the necessary financial and material support from the AU.
Pan African Parliament legislators are equally convinced about the need for PAP to be fully equipped to exercise its oversight role as a legislative body and promote the integration of the continent for the benefit of the people of Africa.
Formed to ensure the full participation of African people in the economic development and integration of the continent, the PAP is determined to fully execute its mandate, but only if the necessary support is provided by the African Union.
