Tinotenda Hove- Speaker of Parliament Advocate Jacob Mudenda’s election as President of the Bureau of the Conference at the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) Annual Conference of Speakers of National and Regional Parliaments has triggered debate, with critics questioning whether the international recognition reflects the realities of governance and democracy in Zimbabwe.

Mudenda was elected by fellow Speakers attending the conference in Midrand, South Africa, and immediately assumed the chairperson’s role for the two-day gathering. Organisers described the outcome as a strong endorsement of his leadership, while supporters viewed it as recognition of Zimbabwe’s role in continental parliamentary diplomacy.

The conference is being held under the theme, “The Role of Parliamentary Diplomacy in Strengthening Relations with National and Regional Parliaments and Contributing to the Achievements of the Objectives of Agenda 2063.”

However, the development is likely to be viewed differently by critics, who argue that Zimbabwe’s Parliament has frequently been accused of failing to provide effective oversight of the Executive while controversial legislation and constitutional changes continue to generate political tension.

Zimbabwe’s delegation includes Senate President Mabel Chinomona, former PAP President Senator Chief Fortune Charumbira, Government Chief Whip Pupurai Togarepi and PAP representative Happymore Chidziva.

Opening the conference, PAP President Dr Fateh Boutbig challenged African legislatures to translate aspirations into tangible results, urging lawmakers to “Legislate it, Finance it and Defend it” while completing “the unfinished business of African Unity.”

South African Parliament Speaker Thoko Didiza also called for stronger cooperation among African legislatures, saying dialogue was essential in addressing continental challenges such as migration.

Addressing delegates, Mudenda highlighted Zimbabwe’s implementation of Agenda 2063, pointing to the Pfumvudza/Intwasa conservation agriculture programme, dam construction, the Basic Education Assistance Module (BEAM), governance reforms and rural industrialisation through Village Business Units.

He also cited Zimbabwe’s diplomatic role in efforts to resolve the conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the establishment of the Museum of African Liberation and empowerment initiatives targeting women and young people.

Despite these presentations, critics argue that Zimbabwe continues to face significant economic and governance challenges, with many citizens questioning whether the achievements presented at international forums are reflected in their daily lives.

The conference is expected to conclude with the adoption of the Johannesburg Declaration, which aims to strengthen legislative cooperation across Africa and advance the African Union’s Agenda 2063.