Pretoria: The Pan-African Parliament (PAP) has committed to institutional reforms aimed at making the continental legislature more effective, transparent, and influential in advancing African integration, peace, and sustainable development. Opening the First Ordinary Session of the Seventh Parliament in Midrand on Monday, President of the Pan-African Parliament, Dr. Fateh Boutbig, stated that the new parliamentary term marked a turning point for the institution as it seeks to deliver tangible results for the people of Africa.
According to South African Government News Agency, Boutbig expressed that this session represents a pivotal moment for the continental institution, marking the beginning of a new chapter with a keen awareness of their responsibility and mission. He emphasized the Seventh Parliament's guidance by principles of "Reform, Effectiveness, Partnership, and Delivery," moving the institution from merely making recommendations to ensuring their implementation and impact.
Boutbig highlighted the expectation from the continent's people for sincerity of commitment rather than eloquence, noting that the success of institutions is judged by tangible achievements that improve citizens' lives. He outlined a focus on building a modern institution grounded in competence, innovation, transparency, accountability, and effective parliamentary diplomacy.
He expressed gratitude to South Africa for hosting the seat of the Pan-African Parliament and acknowledged the country's contribution to advancing continental unity. The President reaffirmed the Parliament's commitment to supporting the African Union's Agenda 2063, describing it as the framework embodying Africa's aspirations for prosperity, integration, and security.
Dr. Boutbig identified four strategic priorities shaping the work of the Seventh Parliament: strengthening institutional performance through governance reforms, advancing legislative and economic integration to support the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), promoting peace and justice through parliamentary diplomacy, and driving digital transformation across the continent.
On economic integration, he described the AfCFTA as a transformative project for Africa, not merely an economic agreement but a strategic project embodying Africa's determination to build its future. He noted the Parliament's support for legislative harmonization and stronger cooperation among African states to unlock the full benefits of continental trade.
Addressing peace and security, Boutbig reiterated the Parliament's call for African-led solutions to conflicts while reaffirming support for international law and rights. He emphasized the Parliament's role as a forum for dialogue and a partner in supporting the African Union's conflict prevention and resolution efforts.
Boutbig also highlighted the African Union's 2026 Theme of the Year on safeguarding sustainable water and sanitation services, underscoring the need for legislative action to manage one of the continent's critical resources responsibly.