Algerian Leader Elected President of Pan — African Parliament, Signaling Shift in Regional Leadership DATELINE: Midrand, South Africa – 2026-05-24 LEDE: On Africa Day, 25 May 2026, the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) welcomed a new era as Hon. Fateh Boutbig of Algeria was elected as its President, marking the first time North Africa has held the presidency of the PAP, following the Southern Region’s presidency in 2022. NUT GRAF: The election of Hon.
Boutbig, a significant transition for the PAP, signifies a shift in the regional rotation of leadership and underscores the institution’s growing role in shaping Africa’s policy direction. His election was the result of a transparent process that began within the North African Group, where he secured 19 votes to 4 in the primary elections.
The Extraordinary Session of the Seventh Legislature of the PAP, held from 28 to 30 April 2026 at its headquarters in Midrand, South Africa, saw the election of a new Bureau to lead the institution for the next three years.
This Bureau includes Hon. Boutbig as President, Dr.
Ashebir Woldegiorgis Gayo of Ethiopia as First Vice — President, Hon.
Zanetor Agyeman — Rawlings of Ghana as Second Vice-President, Hon. Djidda Mamar Mahamat of Chad as Third Vice-President, and Hon.
Dr.
Arlete Borges of Angola as Fourth Vice — President. Hon.
Boutbig’s election was a result of a process that began within the North African Group, where he received 19 votes to 4 in the primary elections.
The election was conducted in accordance with Decisions 1288 (XLVI) and 1663 (XLVII) of the African Union Executive Council, ensuring adherence to African Union legal and institutional frameworks.
The election of Hon. Boutbig is seen as a significant milestone for the PAP.
It represents the growing influence of North Africa in the continental body and signals a new direction for the institution.
His campaign focused on institutional strengthening, Africa’s economic transformation, and parliamentary inclusiveness, areas he aims to prioritize during his tenure.
The Algerian government and the Algerian Parliament are recognized for their diplomatic standing and the success of their candidate in the election.
Algeria’s commitment to supporting African development initiatives, including a USD 1 million grant to the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) and a USD 1 billion development allocation announced on 19 February 2023, reinforces the narrative of a campaign backed by tangible continental investment.
The PAP, as the legislative organ of the African Union, plays a crucial role in discussing and deciding on issues affecting the continent.
The election of a new Bureau, including Hon.
Boutbig, is significant as it sets the strategic direction for the institution and indicates a more assertive Continental Parliament capable of shaping Africa’s policy direction. KICKER: As Hon.
Boutbig takes office, expectations are high for a more dynamic and influential PAP.
His focus on youth engagement and institutional reforms is expected to strengthen the Parliament’s role as a platform for people from all African states to participate in discussions and decision-making on the problems and challenges facing the continent.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
—
This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: African Union
Source: jonganga
