Fortune Z. Charumbira

Fortune Zephania Charumbira is a Zimbabwean politician serving as president of the Zimbabwe Council of Chiefs from 2013. He also served as President of the Pan-African Parliament from 29 June 2022 until 30 April 2026 , 4th Vice President of the Pan-African Parliament and Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works of Zimbabwe during the 2000s.

Personal Life and Education Fortune Z. Charumbira was born in the Masvingo District of the Masvingo Province, Zimbabwe, and later became a Traditional leader in the Masvingo Province. He inherited the role in 2000 and was formally installed as a substantive traditional leader on May 24th of that year.

His leadership role in the Council of Chiefs has also given him a place in Zimbabwe’s national legislature. Through his leadership in the council, Charumbira entered the Senate and has participated in legislative discussions concerning rural development, governance, and the role of traditional authorities in national politics. His political activities have often emphasized strengthening the constitutional recognition of traditional leaders and ensuring representation for rural communities in national policymaking.

Pan-African Parliament

Vice presidency Charumbira entered continental politics through the Pan-African Parliament (PAP), the legislative body of the African Union that represents the people of AU member states.

In October 2018, Charumbira was elected unopposed as the Fourth Vice President of the Pan-African Parliament, representing the Southern African region. In that role he oversaw portfolios related to plenary proceedings, committees, media, communications, and parliamentary languages.

During his time in the parliament he also chaired committees responsible for oversight and financial accountability, including the Permanent Committee on Audit and Public Accounts. These positions placed him within the leadership structure responsible for guiding the operations of the continental legislature.

In March 2024 he was re-elected as President of the Pan-African Parliament during an extraordinary session. Running as the candidate from the Southern African region, he secured 127 votes to return to the position and continue his mandate.

Following his re-election he pledged to continue his program aimed at strengthening the institution and enhancing its role within the African Union. His stated priorities included revitalizing the parliament and reinforcing its contribution to continental integration and development.

The allegations included claims that the complainant had secretly recorded interactions in which Charumbira allegedly solicited an intimate relationship. Zimbabwean police were reported to be investigating the matter at the time.