- Rafael Hangula
Midrand, South Africa- Three members of Namibia’s parliamentary delegation to the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) were sworn in today as designated Members during the official opening of the 1st Extraordinary Session of the 7th PAP in Midrand.
The Members sworn in are Hon. Olivia Hanghuwo and Hon. Tjimutambo Kuuoko from the National Council, and Hon. Alpheus !Naruseb from the National Assembly.
Their designation follows vacancies in Namibia’s PAP delegation arising after last year’s parliamentary changes, including the conclusion of the terms of former National Council Members Hon. Gerhard Shiimi and Hon. Anseline Beukes. Hon. Alpheus !Naruseb assumes the PAP seat previously held by Hon. Uekua Herunga.
Following their swearing-in, the Members will be assigned to the PAP’s Permanent Committees through the Southern Africa Caucus, in line with the Parliament’s procedures for regional representation and committee allocation.
The ongoing Extraordinary Session is expected to focus on key institutional matters, including the election of the Bureau of the Seventh Legislature of the Pan-African Parliament, scheduled for Thursday.
Delegates from across the continent will participate in the election of the Bureau, which serves as the PAP’s principal leadership and administrative structure. The Bureau is composed of a President and four Vice-Presidents representing Africa’s five regions and is responsible for providing strategic direction and overseeing the functioning of the institution.
Namibia is represented at the session by a five-member parliamentary delegation led by the Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, Hon. Philipus Katamelo. Other members of the delegation include Hon. Rodney Cloete.
The Pan-African Parliament, an organ of the African Union, provides a platform for African legislators to engage on matters of continental importance, including governance, peace and security, human rights, and socio-economic development.
