The President of the Pan-African Parliament (PAP), H.E. Dr. Fateh Boutbig, yesterday hosted a virtual pre-session press conference ahead of the First Ordinary Session of the Seventh Legislature, which will take place from 17 July to 1 August 2026 at the Pan-African Parliament Headquarters in Midrand, South Africa.
Addressing journalists from across the continent and beyond, the President described the Session as the official commencement of the Seventh Legislature’s parliamentary programme and a significant milestone in advancing the Pan-African Parliament’s mandate within the African Union governance architecture.
The President reaffirmed the commitment of the newly elected Bureau to strengthening the effectiveness, credibility and visibility of the institution, while enhancing the Parliament’s role as the parliamentary voice of the peoples of Africa.
He noted that Members of Parliament will deliberate on key continental priorities, including governance, peace and security, economic integration, sustainable development and the implementation of Agenda 2063. The Session will also provide an opportunity for parliamentary committees to advance oversight and policy dialogue on issues affecting the continent.
The President further underscored the Pan-African Parliament’s support for the African Union Theme of the Year 2026, highlighting the importance of legislative action and oversight in promoting water security and sanitation as essential pillars of sustainable development.
Intervening during the same press engagement, Hon. Dr. Arlete Borges (Mrs.), Fourth Vice President of the Pan-African Parliament underscored: “The First Ordinary Session of the Seventh Legislature reflects the Pan-African Parliament’s commitment to strengthening parliamentary cooperation, advancing Africa’s integration agenda, and delivering practical solutions to the challenges facing our continent. Through the work of our committees, plenary deliberations, and engagement with national and regional parliaments, we are reinforcing our collective responsibility to promote peace, sustainable development, good governance, and the aspirations of Agenda 2063 for the benefit of all Africans.”
Calling on citizens across Africa to follow the proceedings through the Parliament’s communication platforms, the Parliament reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to transparency, accountability and public participation. The President also acknowledged the important role of the media as partners in communicating the work of the Parliament and encouraged accurate and objective reporting throughout the Session.
The First Ordinary Session of the Seventh Legislature will bring together Members of the Pan-African Parliament, Speakers of National and Regional Parliaments, representatives of African Union Organs and Institutions, Member States and strategic partners to deliberate on issues critical to Africa’s development and integration