Pan-African Parliament Bureau Convenes to Finalize Arrangements for Fifth Ordinary Session

With the official opening of the Fifth Ordinary Session of the Sixth Legislature of the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) just days away, the Bureau of the Parliament, led by H.E. Chief Fortune Zephania Charumbira, has met in Midrand, South Africa, to fine-tune logistical and administrative preparations. This high-level gathering marks a significant milestone in the countdown to the session scheduled to run from 21 July to 1 August 2025.

Held at the PAP headquarters in Gallagher Estate, Midrand, the Bureau deliberated on the draft program for the session, budget proposals, and support staff requirements. It also reviewed coordination with Permanent Committees and ensured that logistical plans for both public and closed meetings are on track.

This Ordinary Session, scheduled to take place from 21 July to 1 August 2025, will be held under the African Union’s 2025 theme: “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent through Reparations.” As the legislative organ of the African Union, PAP is expected to play a pivotal role in advancing this year’s theme by facilitating meaningful deliberations and legislative inputs on justice, equity, and historical redress.

Bureau Engagement and Responsibilities

In line with Articles 12.2 and 12.5 of the PAP Protocol, the Bureau—comprising the President and four Vice-Presidents—functions as the executive arm of the Parliament, overseeing the administration and management of its affairs. These Officers are supported by the Clerk and Deputy Clerks in executing their mandate.

The current Bureau members are:

• President: H.E. Hon. Chief Fortune Zephania Charumbira (Southern Region, Zimbabwe)
• First Vice-President: Hon. Dr. Fatimetou Habib (Northern Region, Mauritania)
• Second Vice-President: Hon. Dr. Ashebiri Gayo (Eastern Region, Ethiopia)
• Third Vice-President: Hon. Lucia Maria Mendes Gonçalves dos Passos (Western Region, Cape Verde)
• Fourth Vice-President: Hon. Djidda Mamar Mahamat (Central Region, Chad)

Roadmap to the Ordinary Session

The lead-up to the Fifth Ordinary Session features several key preparatory meetings and engagements:

Closed Sessions:

• 16–17 July: Meeting of the 6th PAP Bureau
• 18 July: Joint meeting of the Bureau with Permanent Committees and Caucus Bureaus
• 18 July: Meeting of the Committee on Rules, Privileges and Discipline
• 19 July: Orientation session for new Members of Parliament

Public Sessions:

• 21 July: Opening Ceremony and Opening Press Conference
• 22–31 July: Daily Plenary Sessions and side meetings
• 1 August: Closing Ceremony and Closing Press Conference

Focus of the Plenary

The upcoming session promises to be a dynamic platform for continental legislative activity. Plenary deliberations will include:

• Review of reports from PAP’s thematic committees
• Consideration of recommendations to the African Union Summit of Heads of State and Government
• Engagements with reports and perspectives from other AU organs and institutions

With Parliamentarians representing AU Member States, PAP aims to enhance democratic governance and promote integration across the continent. The institution’s work during this session will feed directly into continental policymaking processes and further the cause of justice and reparations for African communities.

Media and Public Engagement

Accredited journalists are invited to cover the session in person at PAP headquarters (19 Richard’s Drive, Gallagher Estate, Midrand, South Africa). A livestream of public proceedings will be available via PAP’s social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube

For accreditation and media inquiries, journalists are required to complete the registration form by 15 July 2025 and contact the PAP media team as detailed in the official advisory.

As the continent converges in Midrand, the Fifth Ordinary Session represents a critical opportunity for African legislators to strengthen continental unity and address historical injustices through robust parliamentary action.