South African President Mbeki to head African Union

More than 30 African leaders gathered Monday in this balmy port city to bury the Organization of African Unity, the venerable organization that championed the continent's long and successful struggle against white oppressors but stood mostly silent when black autocrats emerged in their wake.

The presidents and prime ministers here said the dismantling of the OAU heralded a new era for the continent. The 39-year-old group is to be replaced on Tuesday by the African Union, a new and more powerful body that will require its members to commit themselves to democratic principles and to respect human rights.

Read full article from the International Herald Tribune.