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🛒 تسوق الآنAfrican Parliament Committee Discusses Parliamentary Immunities and Malabo Protocol in Key Session
African Parliament Committee Discusses Parliamentary Immunities and Malabo Protocol in Key Session
Libya chairs crucial meeting of the Committee on Rules, Privileges, and Discipline as African lawmakers debate legal frameworks
MIDRAND, South Africa — The African Parliament's Committee on Rules, Privileges, and Discipline convened on Monday, July 27, 2026, in Midrand, South Africa, to discuss parliamentary immunities and the Malabo Protocol in what observers describe as a pivotal session for continental legislative cooperation.
The meeting was chaired by Libyan House of Representatives member Saleh Qalamah Yasku, who heads the influential committee, underscoring Libya's active role within the Pan-African Parliament's institutional framework.
What the Committee Addressed
The committee's agenda focused on two primary issues: the scope and application of parliamentary immunities across member states, and the implications of the Malabo Protocol — formally the Protocol on Amendments to the Statute of the African Court of Justice and Human Rights.
Parliamentary immunity remains a cornerstone of legislative independence across Africa, protecting lawmakers from undue executive pressure. However, its application varies widely between member states, creating inconsistencies the committee seeks to harmonize.
"Without clear and consistent immunity frameworks, lawmakers cannot effectively represent their constituents or hold governments accountable," sources familiar with the discussions indicated.
The Malabo Protocol and Its Continental Significance
Adopted by the African Union in June 2014 in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea, the Malabo Protocol extends the jurisdiction of the African Court of Justice and Human Rights to try international crimes, including genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, and the unconstitutional change of government.
The protocol also addresses the controversial issue of immunity for senior state officials while in office, sparking debate among legal scholars and human rights advocates. By reviewing the Malabo Protocol, the African Parliament signals its intent to advance ratification among member states.
To date, only 15 African Union member states have signed the Malabo Protocol, and just Mauritania has ratified it — far short of the 15 ratifications needed for it to enter into force.
Libya's Leadership Role in the African Parliament
Libya's chairing of this session reflects its continued engagement with continental institutions despite political challenges at home. The Libyan House of Representatives has maintained active participation in the African Parliament, contributing to legislative development and cross-border cooperation.
Saleh Qalamah Yasku, as chair of the Rules, Privileges, and Discipline Committee, plays a key role in shaping the procedural and ethical frameworks that govern the African Parliament's work. His leadership signals Libya's commitment to strengthening parliamentary governance across the continent.
What Parliamentary Immunity Means for African Legislatures
Parliamentary immunity protects legislators from civil or criminal liability for actions taken in the course of their legislative duties, including debates, votes, and statements made in parliamentary sessions. This protection is designed to prevent interference with legislative independence.
In many African countries, the scope of immunity is poorly defined or subject to political manipulation. Some states grant near-absolute immunity, while others provide minimal protections, leaving lawmakers vulnerable to politically motivated prosecutions.
The committee's discussions aim to develop model guidelines that could harmonize immunity provisions across the continent, balancing legislative independence with accountability.
Broader Context of African Parliamentary Cooperation
The meeting comes amid broader efforts by the African Parliament — established under Article 17 of the Constitutive Act of the African Union — to strengthen its role as a legislative advisory body for the continent. The Parliament currently operates with consultative powers, with member states periodically discussing its evolution toward full legislative authority.
The Midrand meeting follows recent engagements between the African Parliament and the Arab Parliament on developing parliamentary cooperation, demonstrating the continental body's expanding diplomatic reach.
As the committee continues its work, its recommendations will be presented to the full African Parliament in upcoming sessions, potentially influencing legislative reforms across member states.
— Libya Press / News Desk
