The African Parliamentary Union (UPA) has elected Bahouaba Norbert Tankoano, a representative of the Burkinabè National Assembly, as its new Secretary General. The election took place during the 86th session of the UPA's Executive Committee, held in Lomé, Togo, on November 10-11, 2026. Tankoano won the position with 17 votes out of 23, defeating his opponent, Bouba Halidou from Cameroon.
As the newly elected Secretary General, Tankoano will serve a mandate from 2027 to 2030, succeeding Idi Gado Boubacar from Niger. He becomes the 8th Secretary General of the UPA. Tankoano has extensive experience in parliamentary administration, having previously served as Deputy Secretary General of the National Assembly, Executive Secretary of the G5 Sahel Interparliamentary Committee, and Head of the African Parliamentary Organizations and Assemblies Service.
As Secretary General, Tankoano will be responsible for coordinating UPA activities, ensuring administrative functioning, and implementing decisions made by the organization's governing bodies. His election has been hailed as a success for Burkinabè diplomacy, with Daouda Diallo, 4th Vice President of the Burkinabè National Assembly, citing efforts to mobilize and consult with African parliaments.
The Burkinabè delegation has expressed satisfaction with the election outcome, seeing it as a vote of confidence in the country and an opportunity to strengthen its participation in continental discussions. Tankoano's experience and expertise are expected to contribute to the UPA's work in promoting parliamentary cooperation and good governance across Africa.
The UPA is an organization that brings together national parliaments from across Africa, aiming to promote cooperation, understanding, and good governance. The organization's work focuses on issues such as democracy, human rights, and sustainable development. As Secretary General, Tankoano will play a key role in shaping the UPA's agenda and activities.
The election of Bahouaba Norbert Tankoano as UPA Secretary General marks a significant achievement for Burkinabè diplomacy and parliamentary cooperation. His term is set to begin in 2027, and he will be expected to build on the work of his predecessors while addressing the challenges facing the continent.
Key points
- The Burkinabè representative won the election with 17 votes out of 23, defeating his opponent from Cameroon.
- Tankoano has extensive experience in parliamentary administration, having served in various roles, including Deputy Secretary General of the National Assembly.
- As Secretary General, Tankoano will be responsible for coordinating UPA activities, ensuring administrative functioning, and implementing decisions made by the organization's governing bodies.
