Pretoria: President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) to strengthen its role as the guardian of democracy, champion of African integration, and catalyst for translating continental commitments into tangible improvements in the lives of Africans. Addressing the opening of the First Ordinary Session of the Seventh Legislature of the Pan-African Parliament at Gallagher Estate in Midrand, President Ramaphosa emphasized the institution's importance at a time when the continent faces conflict, economic uncertainty, climate change, and geopolitical tensions.
According to South African Government News Agency, President Ramaphosa highlighted that the Pan-African Parliament carries the hopes of more than 1.5 billion Africans for peace, progress, and prosperity across the continent. He described it as an enduring symbol of unity in diversity, anchored in the conviction that Africa's future must be shaped not only by its governments but by its peoples.
President Ramaphosa pointed to recent wildfires in Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia as a reminder of the need for African solidarity. He congratulated Dr. Fateh Boutbig and the newly elected leadership of the Pan-African Parliament, expressing confidence in their ability to advance the mandate of African unity.
Reflecting on South Africa's democratic journey, President Ramaphosa reaffirmed the country's commitment to contributing to peace, development, and institution building across Africa. He cited South Africa's role in hosting the inaugural African Union Summit in 2002 and supporting democracy and reconstruction efforts through the African Renaissance and International Cooperation Fund.
Highlighting Africa's coordinated response to the COVID-19 pandemic, President Ramaphosa described it as a powerful example of continental cooperation. He noted that Africa's vaccine procurement mechanisms extended benefits beyond the continent, including Caribbean countries.
Turning to the role of the Pan-African Parliament, President Ramaphosa stressed its responsibility in ensuring African Union aspirations translate into better lives for citizens. He urged parliamentarians to prioritize the African Union's 2026 Theme of the Year, focusing on water security and sanitation.
Addressing democracy, President Ramaphosa called for the Parliament to be resolute in defending constitutional democracy and warned against unconstitutional changes of government and misuse of public resources. He also highlighted the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a crucial tool for achieving unity and economic transformation.
On migration, President Ramaphosa called for a balanced continental approach, condemning xenophobia and misinformation. He emphasized the need to address the root causes of migration, advocating for a future where Africans migrate by choice, not necessity.
President Ramaphosa concluded by emphasizing the importance of adding value to Africa's resources, empowering youth and women, and investing in infrastructure. He called for a unified African voice in global governance and urged the Pan-African Parliament to remain a force for democracy, peace, and accountability.