Ghana’s representation on the continental stage has received a notable boost following the election of Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings as Second Deputy President of the Pan-African Parliament in Johannesburg, South Africa.
The Ghanaian legislator secured a decisive win, obtaining 131 votes against 51 during elections held at the Parliament’s Extraordinary Session in Midrand, near Johannesburg. Her victory places her in one of the top leadership positions of the continental legislature, a role comparable to a Second Deputy Speaker.
With this development, she becomes the first female representative from the West African Caucus to hold the position in the history of the Pan-African Parliament, marking a significant milestone for both gender representation and regional leadership within the institution.
The Pan-African Parliament, which serves as the legislative arm of the African Union, plays a key role in advancing democracy, strengthening governance systems, and enhancing policy coordination among member states. It brings together lawmakers from across the continent to deliberate on shared political, economic, and social issues affecting Africa.
Context of the Election
Agyeman-Rawlings’ election comes during the Parliament’s Extraordinary Session of its Seventh Legislature, taking place from April 28 to 30, 2026, in Johannesburg, where members are selecting a new leadership Bureau. This follows the expiration of the Sixth Bureau’s mandate in February 2026.
The Bureau is responsible for steering the strategic direction of the institution and overseeing its administrative functions. It is composed of a President and four Vice-Presidents representing Africa’s five regions, in line with African Union principles that emphasize regional balance, inclusivity, and transparency.
Rising Continental Profile
A medical doctor by training and a three-term Member of Parliament, Agyeman-Rawlings joined Ghana’s delegation to the Pan-African Parliament in 2025, further expanding her involvement in continental governance.
In Ghana’s Parliament, she currently chairs the Security and Intelligence Committee, with her work spanning governance, security policy, and humanitarian advocacy.
Her election has been widely interpreted as a boost for Ghana’s diplomatic influence, while also reinforcing the growing presence of women in leadership roles within African parliamentary structures. It further positions Ghana as an active contributor to shaping legislative priorities across the continent.
