Sadc CSOs petition AU over PAP crisis

REGIONAL civic society organisations (CSOs) working with the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) Civil Society Forum have petitioned the African Union (AU) to intervene in the ongoing leadership crisis at the continental parliamentary forum.

The CSOs include African Parliamentary Press Network, Centre for Human Rights, African Parliament Monitoring Organisation Network, PAP CSO Forum, among others.

In the petition dated February 13 and directed to the AU Assembly of Heads of State and Government, the CSOs raised concern over the on-going leadership crisis at PAP.

“We bring to your attention critical issues regarding financial transparency and accountability of resources at PAP, the persistent interference of the AU in the affairs of the PAP, and the general instability at PAP,” they said.

“As defenders of democracy, good governance, human rights, rule of law, transparency and accountability of democratic institutions on the African continent under the tenets of open parliaments, we are concerned about past and current developments at PAP.”

They accused the leadership of Roger Nkodo Dang — Cameroon (2015-2022), Chief Fortune Charumbira — Zimbabwe (20222023) and the current acting president of PAP, Ashebiri Gayo — Ethiopia, of trying to consolidate power in the position of the president to PAP’s detriment.

The CSOs said during the three leaders’ tenures, PAP was riddled with scandals, reports of corruption, abuse of office and resources.

They said although investigations were carried out, no punitive measures were taken.

“The on-going developments at PAP and the unsettled leadership impasse are denying ordinary Africans ... the opportunity to be active participants in discussions and decision-making on challenges they are facing. The fact that PAP has not met since May 2023 has further exacerbated the leadership turmoil,” the petition read.

The CSOs said PAP second vicepresident suspended newly appointed clerk, Lindiwe Khumalo, for criticising the AU recruitment process and described this as consequential since the PAP did not have a clerk for over a year.

They said this created a gap in leadership and management of corporate services, finances and general administration necessary to ensure the smooth daily running of the institution.

“An open letter by PAP staff on January 9, 2024, titled Call for AU action to rescue the PAP from abuse of power and dictatorship of Ashebir Gayo, enumerated numerous infractions alleged to have been perpetrated by the second vice-president,” the petition read.

“These include abuse of power, intimidation, harassment, bullying, illegal appointments and violation of AU staff rules and regulations. These allegations fundamentally undermine the role and purpose of PAP.”

The CSOs asked the AU to take immediate action to restore PAP’s integrity.

“The PAP Protocol should be respected by all stakeholders to forestall any future interference in the affairs of the Parliament,” the petition added.