Former Vice-President Barlen Vyapoory Appointed Vice-Chair Of SADC Panel Of Elders

The former Mauritian vice-president is one of the eight members of the panel. The mission of the Panel of Elders and the Mediation Reference Group, another institution appointed by the Southern African Development Authority, is to help promote political stability and security in the region through the prevention and resolution of inter- and intra-state conflicts. The members of both bodies are appointed for four years.  The Panel of Elders and the Mediation Reference Group are accountable to the body on politics, defence and security, chaired by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. The members are former heads of state and government, former ministers and diplomats from SADC countries.  Former Tanzanian President Dr Jakaya Kikwete chairs the Panel of Elders which, in addition to Barlen Vyapoory, includes former Zimbabwean minister Patrick Chinamasa and Botswana diplomat Charles Tibone. The Mediation Reference Group will be chaired by Zambian diplomat Lucy Mangomba, assisted by Tanzanian Hellen-Lwegasira. The other members are Molosiwa-Selepeng from Botswana and Dr Andrew Hama Mtetwa from Zimbabwe, both former diplomats.