The sub-branch of which Sifuba - as the Speaker of Legislature - assumed the position of the president was launched at a sitting in Fourth Raadsaal in Bloemfontein. Sifuba says the association is to support democracy, governance and ensure that human rights are protected.

“The importance of the CPA is the interaction and the interfacing that we have with different countries in the world. We are able to meet as African countries to be able to champion and advance the issues in the best interest of the people of Africa. So we go there and represent the people of South Africa on such platforms.”

The launch of the Association’s sub-region in the Free State coincided with Africa day celebrations on Wednesday.

During the launch, Free State premier Sisi Ntombela, urged South Africans and Africans in particular to pride themselves in their being. She said the beliefs, language, and natural resources are at the centre of “our very own existence".

Meanwhile, according to its website, the African Region of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association comprises 63 national and sub-national 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 that 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 the South African branch - and members of the provincial legislature (MPLs).

OFM News