In a move signaling Ghana’s growing influence on the continental stage, the Member of Parliament for Madina Constituency, Francis-Xavier Sosu, has been appointed Vice President of the West African caucus of the African Parliamentary Union (APU).
Known for his consistency and advocacy, the MP’s new role reflects his growing influence in continental parliamentary leadership.
The appointment, announced during the 83rd Session of the APU Executive Committee in Rabat, Morocco, comes at a pivotal time as the region grapples with democratic backsliding and rising insecurity.
“This is a testament to Ghana’s growing leadership and influence in the West African sub-region,” said Sosu after the announcement. “I pledge to work with colleague MPs in West Africa to ensure we advocate for greater integration of West Africa and Africa. Economic emancipation is key on my agenda through the implementation of the AfCFTA agreement.”
Mr. Sosu’s nomination was submitted by Ghana’s Second Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Andrew Asiamah Amoako, who also led the Ghanaian delegation to the session. Delegates unanimously endorsed Sosu’s candidacy, citing his legal expertise and track record in governance advocacy.
The delegation included MPs Bede Ziedeng (Lawra-Nandom), Sammy Awuku (Akuapem North), John Oti Bless (Nkwanta North), and Shirley Kyei (Atwima Nwabiagya South).
Mr Asiamah Amoako praised Mr Sosu’s appointment, stating: “I wish to congratulate Hon. Sosu and believe he will make Ghana proud on the team.”
The meeting also appointed Alioune Gureyre of Mali as President of the West African Caucus and Lawson Raymonde of Togo as Secretary.
Key among the caucus’s priorities moving forward will be addressing terrorism, governance challenges, and promoting unity in the lead-up to the full APU session later this year.
Mr Sosu, known for his vocal stance on human rights and justice reform, emphasized the need for a pan-African approach to policy: “This role provides a platform to promote democratic ideals and inclusive development not only in Ghana but across the sub-region.”
The delegation expressed gratitude to Speaker of Parliament Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin for nominating Mr Sosu and reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to advancing democratic cooperation within the APU framework.
