Ousmane Sonko advocates for stronger, more unified continental parliamentary body
The 85th session of the Executive Committee of the African Parliamentary Union (APU) provided the backdrop for a high-level meeting between Senegal’s National Assembly President, Ousmane Sonko, and Jean-Michel Sama Lukonde Kyenge, Chair of the continental body’s Executive Committee. The June 4 gathering centered on evaluating the APU’s role amid Africa’s mounting political, economic, and security challenges.
Sonko underscored the urgent need to overhaul the APU’s operational framework to enhance its effectiveness and amplify its influence in shaping continental policy. Key proposals included streamlining decision-making processes and strengthening institutional capacity to better align parliamentary recommendations with the African Union’s strategic priorities. The goal, he emphasized, is to ensure Africa’s policies speak with one coherent voice and drive tangible development outcomes for its people.
Discussions also highlighted the importance of bridging the gap between the APU’s legislative proposals and the African Union’s executive decisions. Sonko argued that closer collaboration between the two bodies would eliminate policy fragmentation, foster greater accountability, and maximize the impact of Africa’s collective efforts toward sustainable growth and regional stability.
This strategic dialogue reflects a broader push among African leaders to reinforce parliamentary cooperation and build a more responsive, people-centered governance model across the continent.
