In a significant development for Ghanaian representation on the international stage, Francis-Xavier Sosu, the Member of Parliament for Madina and a distinguished human rights lawyer, has been named the Vice President of the West African Caucus of the African Parliamentary Union (APU). The appointment was announced during a pivotal West African Parliamentary meeting held in Rabat, Morocco, on May 21-22, 2025, coinciding with the 83rd Session of the APU Executive Committee.

Sosu’s nomination came as part of Ghana’s delegation to the session, an assembly carefully selected by the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin. The delegation was under the capable leadership of Andrew Asiamah Amoako, the Second Deputy Speaker and MP for Fomena, who also played a crucial role in nominating Sosu for the vice presidency. Other notable members of the Ghanaian contingent included MPs Bede Ziedeng (Lawra-Nandom), Sammy Awuku (Akuapem North), John Oti Bless (Nkwanta North), and Shirley Kyei (Atwima Nwabiagya South).

During the meeting, the West African Caucus articulated its key priorities, most notably the urgent need to address the escalating threat of terrorism and the worrying decline of democratic governance across the sub-region. These critical issues are set to dominate the agenda for the upcoming broader APU conference, scheduled for later in 2025.

Alongside Sosu’s appointment, Alioune Gureyre from Mali was named President of the Caucus, with Lawson Raymonde of Togo taking on the responsibilities of Secretary. This new leadership team is poised to steer the West African Caucus in tackling some of the most pressing challenges facing the region.

Sosu’s appointment not only underscores his commitment to human rights and governance but also highlights Ghana’s increasing influence within regional parliamentary bodies. It is expected that his expertise and dedication will significantly contribute to the Caucus’s efforts in promoting peace, security, and democratic values throughout West Africa.