Africa's leaders meeting in Libya have taken a step toward creation of a continental authority that would have enhanced powers to deal with matters of mutual interest. But a compromise reached after days of heated debate is short on details. After a marathon negotiating session that ended at four o'clock Friday morning, Benin's Foreign Minister Jean-Marie Ehouzou said, "The states are ready to give up a little part of their sovereignty for the benefit of the [union]." But Ehouzou suggested the compromise reached by heads of state on transforming the African Union's executive arm into a continental authority still faces a long, difficult road before it becomes reality. It would take effect only after the AU constitution is amended and ratified by all 53 member states. A document seen by reporters envisions a revamped AU... [read full story]
