Story by Wellington Makonese
The Pan-African Parliament (PAP) has underscored the significance of pursuing reparations for Africa as the continent seeks self-determination.
This came out during the continental legislative body’s committee sittings in Midrand, South Africa this Thursday where critical issues surrounding governance on the continent were deliberated.
In his address, PAP president Chief Fortune Charumbira, emphasised that justice for Africa through reparations is of great importance as the continent seeks self-determination.
“There is a unique and unprecedented moral debt owed to the peoples of Africa that has yet to be paid, the debt of compensation owed to Africans, the most humiliated and exploited people over the last four centuries of modern history,” he said.
He strongly criticised the United States of America for undermining the sovereignty of African states through sanctions, calling on Africa to unite against such imperialist practices.
“We condemn, in the strongest terms, the idea of the USA imposing sanctions on South Africa. It is an outdated strategy employed by imperialists to violate state sovereignty. Coming from Zimbabwe, I have experienced this firsthand, it is also time for Africa to unite and condemn it while fighting for self-determination,” the PAP president added.
Dean of African Ambassadors in South Africa, Ambassador Andre Nzapayeke highlighted the importance of strengthening PAP’s capacity.
“We must take steps to reinforce the Pan-African Parliament’s capacity for its crucial role. If we come together, imagine the power we have. We are grateful that PAP is now on the right path, and we are here to support you. I would like to congratulate the AU for its leadership, it shows we are making significant strides in democracy.”
The meeting takes place against the backdrop of the Sitting of Permanent Committees and related engagements of the 6th PAP.
During the engagements, delegates were briefed on the AU Summit, where one of the key issues discussed was the Reform of the United Nations Security Council to ensure greater representation for Africa.
The committee sittings come at a time when Africa faces unprecedented challenges, with escalating conflicts across the continent despite the AU’s commitment to “silencing the guns by 2030.”
