African Union 6th MYCM: Can Pan-African Parliament Fight for its Survival?

By Modester Kamupinda

H.E. Chief Fortune Charumbira, President of the Pan-African Parliament (PAP), is currently leading a delegation of the Bureau and Secretariat to the Sixth Mid-Year Coordination Meeting (6th MYCM) of the African Union (AU), Regional Economic Communities, and Regional Mechanisms. Observers are keenly watching, hoping this meeting—intended as a forum for unity and progress—will serve as a pivotal moment for the PAP to assert itself and have its voice heard. The meeting brings together Heads of State and Government, representatives from the African Union Commission and its organs, Ministers, the Diplomatic Corps, and members of regional economic communities.

It is anticipated that these key stakeholders will address the critical issues of funding and authority that have long undermined the PAP, transforming what should be a formidable legislative body into an echo chamber plagued by internal strife.

Amid a myriad of internal and external challenges, the Pan-African Parliament has demonstrated resilience. Its delegation arrived in Accra following a successful leadership dispute resolution that culminated into an election and a 3rd Ordinary Session of its Sixth Parliament. During this session, the Parliament adopted key resolutions and recommendations on the AU theme for 2024 and other critical issues.

Financial starvation has plunged the Pan-African Parliament into an existential crisis, casting serious doubts on its sustainability and relevance, as well as questioning the political will of African leaders. With a budget that barely covers operational costs, the PAP has been reduced to a shadow of its intended self, struggling to fulfil its current advisory roles within the African Union. The stark reality of the situation is that without significant financial intervention, the PAP is stripped every budget year to a mere ceremonial entity, unable to effectively contribute to policy-making and adoption by national parliaments.

The funding crisis at the PAP is more than a budgetary inconvenience; it is a fundamental threat to its very purpose. With a 2024 budget of a mere US$10,570,625, of which a staggering US$8,038,113 is swallowed by staff costs, only US$2,088,820 remains for actual programs. This financial starvation cripples the PAP’s ability to conduct essential activities such as plenary and committee sessions. Consequently, the Parliament is unable to effectively tackle critical issues such as elections, peace and security, education, human capital, and socio-economic development—areas that are vital for the continent’s future.

The PAP’s struggles are further exacerbated by its lack of legislative power. Only 14 of the AU’s 54 Member States have ratified the 2014 Malabo Protocol, which is intended to grant the PAP legislative authority. At least 28 ratifications are needed for the protocol to take effect. Without these powers, the PAP remains an advisory body with limited influence, a stark contrast to the European Parliament in Strasbourg, which wields significant legislative power and is directly elected by the European populace. This comparison underscores the urgent need for AU member states to ratify the protocol, thereby empowering the PAP with the necessary rights, privileges, and resources.

As H.E. Chief Fortune Charumbira and his delegation engage with key stakeholders at the 6th MYCM, the stakes are high. The Parliament’s future depends on the commitment of African leaders to not only address its financial shortfall but also to expedite the ratification of the Malabo Protocol. The outcome of this meeting could determine whether the PAP remains a powerful advocate for the continent’s development or is relegated to a symbolic role with diminished impact. The need for decisive action and renewed political will has never been more urgent to restore the PAP’s relevance and effectiveness in shaping Africa’s future.