In a demonstration of democratic commitment and pan-African literary unity, the Pan African Writers Association (PAWA) has concluded its 2025 General Assembly elections, guided by a newly constituted Election Committee. Formed on July 12, 2025, the committee originally chaired by Professor Cherno Omar Barry of The Gambia, saw a seamless transition of leadership to Mr. Goima Peter Mwamwingila of Tanzania. Alongside members Ms. Lucille Mudenda (Zambia), Ms. Salma El Nour (Sudan), and Mr. Ernest Oppong (Ghana) as Technical Adviser, the committee embarked on the crucial task of steering the elections in a spirit of clarity, fairness, and inclusiveness.

Following an official call for nominations on July 13, PAWA sought candidates for its presidency, secretary generalship, and six vice presidencies representing key regions of Africa and the diaspora. It was also decided by the General Assembly that the position of Deputy Secretary General would be suspended until the financial stability of the organization could sustain it. The nomination process closed with a clear outcome: all posts except the presidency were uncontested, resulting in automatic elections of several notable figures — among them Mr. Ashraf Aboul Yazid (Egypt) as Vice President for Northern Africa, Prof. Egara Kabaji (Kenya) for Eastern Africa, Prof. Cherno Omar Barry (The Gambia) for Western Africa, Mr. Carlos Paradona (Mozambique) for Southern Africa, Mr. Eric Joel Bekale (Gabon) for Central Africa, Ms. Reyna Lineres Jones (Diaspora), and Dr. Wale Okediran as Secretary General.

The presidency, however, unfolded as a spirited yet respectful contest between Prof. Bill Ndi (Cameroon/Diaspora) and Madam Imela Oyono Ayingono (Equatorial Guinea). After the virtual ballot closed on July 18 at 4 PM GMT, 42 votes were cast by PAWA delegates. Of these, 5 were disqualified due to irregularities, resulting in 37 valid votes. Prof. Bill Ndi secured a commanding victory with 23 votes (62.16%), surpassing the constitutional threshold of 50% +1, and was duly declared President for the next three-year term.

This new leadership, now officially at the helm, marks a diverse and dynamic literary council poised to navigate PAWA through the evolving cultural, linguistic, and socio-political landscapes of African literature. In his closing statement, Mr. Mwamwingila extended heartfelt thanks to his fellow committee members and the General Assembly for entrusting them with this honorable responsibility. As PAWA enters a new chapter of its journey, the literary world watches with anticipation, inspired by the organization’s unwavering dedication to dialogue, creativity, and continental cohesion.