The Free State Legislature today observed the launch of a sub-branch during a sitting at the Fourth Raadsaal in Bloemfontein. Member of the Provincial Legislature (MPL), Jabulane Radebe, says the association needs to dispel the perception that the association is a charity organisation which does not look into the interest of citizens. 

Radebe says the association should help unite Africans and develop Africa. The mission and vision of the CPA across the African region is among others to "to promote and protect the interests and perspectives of CPA Africa Regional Parliaments, to promote gender equality, the emancipation of women, and garnering respect for human rights, freedom, democracy and good governance.”

According to its website, the African Region of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association comprises of 63 national and subnational legislatures.

The CPA Africa Region is governed by a Coordinating Committee and Executive Committee which is made up of representatives from across the region. There is also a Regional Representatives Committee which reports to the Executive Committee.

The launching of the sub-branch in the Free State legislature was attended by amongst other Premier Sisi Ntombela, National Assembly deputy speaker, Lechesa Tsenoli - who is the president of South African branch - including members of the provincial legislature(MPLs).

The launch of the sub-branch in the FS legislature coincides with the Africa Day celebration today.

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