By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Fateh Boutbig from Algeria has been elected as the new President of the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) during an Extraordinary Session in Midrand, South Africa.
The election is part of a new Seventh Legislature Bureau chosen for a three-year term, following the end of the previous leadership’s mandate.
Boutbig secured 119 out of 134 votes cast, with 15 ballots spoiled.
The election was overseen by African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf to ensure transparency and adherence to AU rules.
He is expected to focus on making the PAP more effective in representing African citizens and driving the implementation of Agenda 2063, the AU’s blueprint for a peaceful, prosperous, and integrated Africa.
The Pan-African Parliament serves as the legislative organ of the African Union. Its Bureau plays a crucial leadership role in shaping continental policies, promoting human rights, good governance, and deeper integration among the 55 AU member states.
In his acceptance speech, Boutbig outlined the important contribution that North Africa can make in the continent.
“The countries of North Africa, particularly Algeria, possess potential and resources that make them a genuine locomotive of continental integration. Algeria, under the leadership of the President of the Republic, Abdelmadjid Tebboune, plays a central role in promoting peace, development, and integration, as well as in advancing African solutions to African problems.”
Boutbig will focus on delivering tangible results that resonate with ordinary Africans and strengthen the AU’s impact on the global stage.