Wetang’ula Represents Africa At Commonwealth Speakers’ Meeting
Wetang’ula Represents Africa At Commonwealth Speakers’ Meeting
In his capacity as a member of the CSPOC Standing Committee, Wetang’ula championed the interests of Africa, emphasizing the need for the continent’s unique challenges and opportunities to feature prominently on the global stage.
“I am here as a member of the CSPOC Standing Committee to represent the Africa region. The specific issues facing our continent must be addressed in these global forums,” he stated.
The Speaker highlighted Africa’s immense potential and called for greater attention to key sectors such as trade, tourism, agriculture, and technological advancement.
“Africa is a rich continent that deserves proper attention in these areas,” he noted.
The meeting, chaired by Om Birla (India), focused on finalizing the agenda for the upcoming 28th CSPOC Conference, scheduled to be held in New Delhi, India, later this year.
A significant topic discussed was the misuse of social media and the spread of fake news, with delegates expressing concern about its impact on public messaging across nations.
Additionally, the committee confirmed that the CSPOC general conference will be held in New Delhi in 2026, while the Standing Committee will convene in Trinidad and Tobago in 2027.
“This meeting represents a significant opportunity to ensure that Africa’s voice resonates strongly in the Commonwealth’s legislative and governance agenda,” Wetang’ula noted.
He emphasized the need for enhanced parliamentary diplomacy and peer exchange to strengthen legislation within member states.
Delegates also addressed the importance of language inclusivity in their engagements, considering the diverse nationalities represented within the Commonwealth, to ensure effective communication.
Established in 1969, CSPOC fosters dialogue and collaboration among speakers and presides officers of Commonwealth member states, promoting best practices in parliamentary governance.
Wetang’ula was accompanied by Kenya’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Catherine Karemu, the Deputy Clerk of the National Assembly, Jeremiah Ndombi, and the Chief of Staff in the Speaker’s Office, Benson Milimo.
Other members of the CSPOC Standing Committee in attendance included Sir Lindsay Hoyle (United Kingdom), Greg Fergus (Canada), Milton Dick (Australia), Sir Richard McMahon (Guernsey), Papali’i Li’o Oloipola Taeu Masipau (Samoa), Bridgid Annisette-George (Trinidad and Tobago), and Lord Fakafanua (Tonga).
Wetang’ula Represents Africa At Commonwealth Speakers’ Meeting
