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09/17/2004:

"Africa: The Continental Legislature Puts Down Roots"

The African Union (AU) decided in July, during its annual summit, to make Kiswahili one of the official languages of the body - along with French, Arabic, Portuguese and English. The East African Legislative Assembly was amongst the regional organisations invited to participate in Thursday's ceremonies, as was the Southern African Development Community.

Indian President Abdul Kalam and Japanese head of state Chikage Oogi were also on hand.

In its first five years of existence, the 265-member PAP will mainly serve in an advisory and consultative capacity to the AU. However in 2009, the parliament will be given teeth: the power to make laws.

Full Article : ipsnews.net