Representing the Chairperson of the African Union (AU), H.E. Évariste Ndayishimiye, President of Burundi, the Chairperson of the AU Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, chaired & oversaw the opening of the Extraordinary Session, & swearing in of the members of the Seventh Legislature of the Pan-African Parliament in Midrand this morning.

The Chairperson underscored that this is “not a routine gathering, but a decisive moment” to restore stability, credibility, and institutional continuity. With new membership and strong regional engagement, the Parliament must rise above divisions and reaffirm its mandate as the voice of Africa’s peoples.

“The election of a new Bureau will be central to relaunching its work, strengthening governance, and advancing continental priorities,” he noted.
Grounded in responsibility, discipline, & unity, the process must deliver cohesive leadership. Forward-looking policies from this House will be critical to achieving tangible outcomes & rebuilding public trust, he added.

He reaffirmed that the AU remains committed to a “transparent, inclusive, rules-based process” & stands ready to support the Parliament in navigating this pivotal moment toward greater resilience, credibility, & service to Africa’s aspirations.
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