Parliament was thrown into mourning on Monday, July 7, 2025, following the sudden death of the Member of Parliament for the Akwatia Constituency, Hon. Ernest Yaw Kumi. The 41-year-old first-time legislator, who represented the New Patriotic Party (NPP), reportedly passed away over the weekend after actively participating in parliamentary business days prior.
Breaking the news to the House, Minority Leader Hon. Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin described the passing of their colleague as a devastating blow to the Minority Caucus and the entire legislature.
"One of us has been summoned to the Parliament above," he said with deep emotion. "Mr. Speaker, the member was seen over the weekend hale and hearty… This member is a young politician from the Eastern Region, in his first term in this chamber, who carried with him a promise to contribute to the discourse of this democratic enterprise."
Hon. Afenyo-Markin paid glowing tribute to the late MP, highlighting his academic accomplishments, including three second degrees—an MBA in Corporate Governance, an LLB, and an MSc in Defence and International Politics—and his previous work as a security manager. He praised his humility, work ethic, and non-controversial nature, describing him as a model colleague who embodied the spirit of Ghana’s parliamentary prayer: "a country of righteousness where none shall wrong his neighbor."
In an emotional moment, he called on the House to adjourn its sitting in honour of the deceased, saying: "Mr. Speaker, the NPP Minority Caucus of 88 members is regrettably now 87. It is the prayer of this side that today's proceedings be terminated as we observe a minute of silence in his honor."
The Majority Leader and Leader of Government Business, Hon. Mahama Ayariga, supported the request for adjournment, also expressing profound sadness over the tragic development.
“Definitely, this is one of the saddest days of this House,” he remarked. “He was full of promise, very studious and energetic… He believed in democracy and participated effectively. At just a little over 40 years, his life and political career were just beginning.”
Hon. Ayariga lamented the national loss, noting that the late MP could have risen to occupy greater leadership positions in the country. "We may never know what we have missed by losing him so early in his political career," he said.
The Speaker of Parliament subsequently directed the House to observe a minute of silence in honour of Hon. Ernest Kumi, after which proceedings were adjourned to allow members time to grieve and regroup.
Hon. Ernest Yaw Kumi was elected in the 2024 general elections and was serving his first term in Parliament. He is survived by his wife and children.
Source: Clement Akoloh||parliamentnews360.com
[post_date_unix] => 1751917357 [post_date] => July 7, 2025 [post_modified] => July 7, 2025 [post_author_url] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/author/parliamentnews360/ [post_author_name] => Clement Akoloh [post_author_email] => senaakoloh@gmail.com [post_comments_no] => 0 [post_comments_link] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/parliament-mourns-sudden-death-of-akwatia-mp-ernest-kumi/#respond [post_theme_settings] => Array ( ) ) [2235] => Array ( [post_id] => 2235 [post_type] => post [has_post_thumbnail] => 1 [post_thumbnail_id] => 2236 [post_link] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/senate-of-lesotho-and-appn-sign-groundbreaking-mou-to-promote-parliamentary-transparency/ [post_title] => Senate of Lesotho and APPN Sign Groundbreaking MoU to Promote Parliamentary Transparency [post_title_attribute] => Senate of Lesotho and APPN Sign Groundbreaking MoU to Promote Parliamentary Transparency [post_excerpt] => In a landmark move to strengthen democratic governance and public accountability, the Senate of Lesotho and the African Parliamentary Press Network (APPN) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing collaboration between the legislative body and the media. The signing ceremony, held in Maseru, marked the formalisation of a longstanding partnership between Parliament reporting journalists and the Upper House of Parliament. [post_content] =>Maseru, Lesotho – July 7, 2025
In a landmark move to strengthen democratic governance and public accountability, the Senate of Lesotho and the African Parliamentary Press Network (APPN) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing collaboration between the legislative body and the media. The signing ceremony, held in Maseru, marked the formalisation of a longstanding partnership between Parliament reporting journalists and the Upper House of Parliament.
A Milestone in Democratic Collaboration
Delivering remarks at the event, the Dean of APPN-Lesotho, Thoboloko Ntso'anyane hailed the moment as a critical step in deepening the role of the media in Lesotho’s democratic landscape. “This MoU signifies the strengthening and formalising of our engagement with the Senate,” the Dean said. “As Parliament reporting journalists, we are committed to transparency, accountability, and championing access to parliamentary information.”
The Dean underscored the watchdog role of journalists in holding Parliament accountable and ensuring citizens are well-informed about legislative developments. “In an age where misinformation can spread rapidly, the role of journalists has never been more critical,” the Dean noted, adding that this partnership must go beyond symbolism to ensure the MoU works for the benefit of both parties.
Special acknowledgements were extended to APPN-Lesotho Secretary ‘M’e Pinkie Moletsane and steering caucus member Ntate Nkoale Oetsi Tšooana for their tireless efforts during negotiations. The Dean also expressed gratitude to the Senate’s team for their commitment to finalising the agreement.
Senate Reaffirms Commitment to Transparency
In his closing remarks, the Clerk of the Senate echoed the significance of the occasion, calling the agreement a “milestone in our collective journey toward strengthening democracy and fostering a more informed citizenry.”
He emphasized the central role of the media as the Fourth Estate and the need for structured collaboration with the legislative branch. “Through this MoU, we are creating a framework for transparency, mutual respect, and civic engagement,” the Clerk said.
Objectives of the MoU
The Memorandum outlines key areas of cooperation, including:
- Regular and open information sharing between the Senate and media
- Facilitating media access to Senate proceedings and engagements
- Joint briefings and capacity-building efforts for journalists
- Ethical and professional reporting standards on parliamentary affairs
- Civic education through media platforms to improve public understanding of the Senate’s role
“The MoU must not gather dust on our shelves,” the Clerk urged. “It must become a living document activated by regular interaction, shared accountability, and mutual respect.”
The Clerk further commended the media for their willingness to collaborate, and extended gratitude to development partners, particularly the European Union, for their support in promoting democratic governance and inclusive dialogue in Lesotho.
A Vision for Democratic Renewal
Both the Senate and APPN pledged to work toward building a culture of transparency and civic empowerment. “Together, we can empower the people of Lesotho with the knowledge they need to shape their future,” the Clerk said in closing.
The ceremony concluded with renewed calls for a proactive and sustained partnership that prioritizes ethical journalism, open governance, and inclusive public discourse.
Source: Clement Akoloh||Parliamentary Network Africa
[post_date_unix] => 1751910252 [post_date] => July 7, 2025 [post_modified] => July 7, 2025 [post_author_url] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/author/parliamentnews360/ [post_author_name] => Clement Akoloh [post_author_email] => senaakoloh@gmail.com [post_comments_no] => 0 [post_comments_link] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/senate-of-lesotho-and-appn-sign-groundbreaking-mou-to-promote-parliamentary-transparency/#respond [post_theme_settings] => Array ( ) ) [2196] => Array ( [post_id] => 2196 [post_type] => post [has_post_thumbnail] => 1 [post_thumbnail_id] => 2197 [post_link] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/chaos-in-parliament-spurs-pnafrica-to-demand-vetting-reforms/ [post_title] => Chaos in Parliament Spurs PNAfrica to Demand Vetting Reforms [post_title_attribute] => Chaos in Parliament Spurs PNAfrica to Demand Vetting Reforms [post_excerpt] => The Parliamentary Network Africa (PNAfrica), a leading civil society organization committed to promoting open and accountable parliaments across Africa, has convened a stakeholder forum to assess Ghana’s parliamentary vetting process for presidential nominees. [post_content] =>The Parliamentary Network Africa (PNAfrica), a leading civil society organization committed to promoting open and accountable parliaments across Africa, has convened a stakeholder forum to assess Ghana’s parliamentary vetting process for presidential nominees.
This comes in the wake of recent disruptions and concerns over the credibility, transparency, and effectiveness of the vetting process overseen by Parliament’s Appointments Committee. The forum provided a platform for critical reflection on the mandate, operations, and performance of the Committee, particularly in light of recent vetting exercises that were marred by political tensions and procedural irregularities.
Vetting sessions in Ghana, which are constitutionally mandated to ensure only competent and ethical individuals are approved for key public positions, have in recent times raised questions about partisanship, insufficient scrutiny, and lack of decorum. A recent incident during a live telecast of a vetting session descended into chaos, with Members of Parliament engaged in heckling and physical confrontations, resulting in damage to public property. This mirrors similar scenes witnessed during the election of the Speaker of Parliament in January 2021.
Speaking at the forum, PNAfrica’s Programmes Manager, Gilbert Borketey Boyefio emphasized the urgent need to restore public confidence in the appointments process. “What we have observed is a gradual erosion of parliamentary standards in the vetting process, where partisan interests tend to overshadow merit, integrity, and accountability.”
The forum brought together legislators, civil society actors, governance experts, and the media to analyze key issues such as the Committee’s adherence to its mandate, the adequacy of its rules and procedures, and the level of scrutiny applied to nominees. It also served as a platform for recommending global best practices and standards for vetting public officials.
The Member of Parliament for Ho West, Hon. Emmanuel Kwasi Bedzrah who doubles as the Chairman of the Ad hoc Committee set up by the Speaker to investigate the circumstances of the recent Ministerial vetting session that descended into chaos informed the gathering that his outfit had completed the Cimmittee Report and laid it in Parliament. He however indicated that there was a pushback from the Minority Caucus about the presentation of the report because of its far reaching recommendations.
PNAfrica is compiling a Discussion Paper capturing insights and recommendations from the deliberations. The paper will be formally presented to the Speaker of Parliament, alongside the launch of an advocacy campaign aimed at securing institutional reforms to prevent future episodes of disorder and to promote a transparent and robust appointments process.
As a parliamentary monitoring organization, PNAfrica believes that the integrity of the vetting process is fundamental to Ghana’s democratic governance, and is committed to working with key stakeholders to strengthen the role of Parliament in holding the Executive to account.
Source: Clement Akoloh | Parliamentary Network Africa
[post_date_unix] => 1750691831 [post_date] => June 23, 2025 [post_modified] => June 23, 2025 [post_author_url] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/author/parliamentnews360/ [post_author_name] => Clement Akoloh [post_author_email] => senaakoloh@gmail.com [post_comments_no] => 0 [post_comments_link] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/chaos-in-parliament-spurs-pnafrica-to-demand-vetting-reforms/#respond [post_theme_settings] => Array ( ) ) [2180] => Array ( [post_id] => 2180 [post_type] => post [has_post_thumbnail] => 1 [post_thumbnail_id] => 2181 [post_link] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/okaikwei-central-mp-warns-of-ghanas-exposure-to-iran-israel-conflict/ [post_title] => Okaikwei Central MP Warns of Ghana’s Exposure to Iran-Israel Conflict [post_title_attribute] => Okaikwei Central MP Warns of Ghana’s Exposure to Iran-Israel Conflict [post_excerpt] => The Member of Parliament for Okaikwei Central, Hon. Patrick Boamah, has raised serious concerns about the potential repercussions Ghana could face as a result of the escalating conflict between Iran and Israel. [post_content] =>The Member of Parliament for Okaikwei Central, Hon. Patrick Boamah, has raised serious concerns about the potential repercussions Ghana could face as a result of the escalating conflict between Iran and Israel.
Addressing journalists at a press conference in Parliament on Monday, June 16, 2025, Hon. Boamah noted that Ghana’s economy—particularly its oil revenue projections—is at risk due to the geopolitical tensions.
“Ghana will, one way or another, suffer from the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel,” he stated. “Twenty-five percent of global oil trade passes through the Strait of Hormuz, which lies within the conflict zone.”
He warned that the 7% increase in global crude oil prices could significantly distort Ghana’s revenue expectations if the government fails to act swiftly. “If a government bases its oil revenue projections on a certain price, and the price has now surged, then immediate steps must be taken to adjust,” he emphasized.
The MP also disclosed disturbing developments affecting Ghana’s diplomatic mission in Iran. He confirmed that the Minister for Foreign Affairs had directed the temporary shutdown of Ghana’s embassy in Tehran due to growing security threats.
“Information reaching me indicates there are six Ghanaian foreign officers stationed at our Tehran Embassy. A nearby shopping center was hit, there’s been no water for days, and telecommunication services are unstable,” he revealed.
While withholding some sensitive details for security reasons, Hon. Boamah confirmed that the embassy staff are in the process of exiting Tehran via a secured route to a neighboring country.
He added that about 50 Ghanaian nationals are currently residing in Kome, a religious city in northern Iran, and are reluctant to leave due to safety concerns. He urged the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to remain in close contact with these citizens and provide them with all necessary support.
Calling for global de-escalation efforts, Hon. Boamah appealed to both Iran and Israel to return to the negotiation table. “The world deserves peace, and economies like Ghana’s need stability to recover and thrive,” he concluded.
Source: Clement Akoloh||parliamentnews360.com
[post_date_unix] => 1750150255 [post_date] => June 17, 2025 [post_modified] => June 17, 2025 [post_author_url] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/author/parliamentnews360/ [post_author_name] => Clement Akoloh [post_author_email] => senaakoloh@gmail.com [post_comments_no] => 0 [post_comments_link] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/okaikwei-central-mp-warns-of-ghanas-exposure-to-iran-israel-conflict/#respond [post_theme_settings] => Array ( ) ) [1953] => Array ( [post_id] => 1953 [post_type] => post [has_post_thumbnail] => 1 [post_thumbnail_id] => 1954 [post_link] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/moroccan-coalition-nominates-sidi-mohamed-oueld-errachid-as-president-of-house-councillors/ [post_title] => Moroccan Coalition Nominates Sidi Mohamed Oueld Errachid as President of House Councillors [post_title_attribute] => Moroccan Coalition Nominates Sidi Mohamed Oueld Errachid as President of House Councillors [post_excerpt] => In a statement released on October 11, 2022, the leadership of Morocco’s majority coalition announced that it has decided to nominate Sidi Mohamed Oueld Errachid from the Istiqlal Party to serve as the next president of the House of Councillors for the second half of the chamber’s legislative term. [post_content] =>Morocco’s Majority Coalition Nominates Sidi Mohamed Oueld Errachid to Succeed Miyara as House Councillors President.
In a statement released on October 11, 2022, the leadership of Morocco’s majority coalition announced that it has decided to nominate Sidi Mohamed Oueld Errachid from the Istiqlal Party to serve as the next president of the House of Councillors for the second half of the chamber’s legislative term.
The decision comes in accordance with Article 63 of the constitution, which stipulates that the president of the House of Councillors, bureau members, and chairs and offices of the standing committees shall be elected at the start of the legislative term and again at the midpoint of the chamber’s legislative mandate.
Meanwhile, King Mohammed VI will chair the opening of Parliament’s new legislative session, delivering a speech to both chambers in a traditional annual ceremony.
[post_date_unix] => 1728669993 [post_date] => October 11, 2024 [post_modified] => October 11, 2024 [post_author_url] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/author/parliamentnews360/ [post_author_name] => Clement Akoloh [post_author_email] => senaakoloh@gmail.com [post_comments_no] => 0 [post_comments_link] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/moroccan-coalition-nominates-sidi-mohamed-oueld-errachid-as-president-of-house-councillors/#respond [post_theme_settings] => Array ( ) ) [1896] => Array ( [post_id] => 1896 [post_type] => post [has_post_thumbnail] => 1 [post_thumbnail_id] => 1897 [post_link] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/2nd-round-of-pap-appn-media-capacity-building-workshop-held-for-southern-sector/ [post_title] => 2ND Round of PAP-APPN Media Capacity-Building Workshop Held for Southern Sector [post_title_attribute] => 2ND Round of PAP-APPN Media Capacity-Building Workshop Held for Southern Sector [post_excerpt] => The Pan-African Parliament (PAP) has successfully hosted a three-day media capacity-building workshop for journalists from the Southern African region, held from May 16th to 18th, 2024. This event, organized in collaboration with the African Parliamentary Press Network (APPN), marks the second in a series of media training sessions aimed at enhancing the visibility of the PAP and its activities across the continent. [post_content] =>Cape Town, South Africa – The Pan-African Parliament (PAP) has successfully hosted a three-day media capacity-building workshop for journalists from the Southern African region, held from May 16th to 18th, 2024. This event, organized in collaboration with the African Parliamentary Press Network (APPN), marks the second in a series of media training sessions aimed at enhancing the visibility of the PAP and its activities across the continent.
The workshop, which took place in Cape Town, South Africa, brought together media professionals from various Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries, including South Africa, Malawi, Eswatini, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Lesotho, DR Congo, Mozambique, and Zambia. The initiative aligns with the broader objectives of the Pan-African Parliament, particularly as it celebrates its 20th anniversary.
The primary goal of the workshop was to sensitize journalists to the role and significance of the PAP within the African Union (AU) framework. As the legislative arm of the AU, the PAP relies heavily on the media to communicate its mission and achievements to the public. Recognizing the indispensable role of the press, the workshop aimed to strengthen the relationship between the PAP and media professionals, ensuring accurate and comprehensive reporting on its activities.
Co-facilitated by Gilbert Borketey Boyefio, Programmes Manager for Parliamentary Network Africa (PNAfrica), officials from the PAP, and other resource persons, the training sessions covered a range of essential topics. These included contextual reporting, ethical journalism, improving media relations, effective media engagement strategies, and the role of the media in enhancing the reporting of PAP activities.
Key officials of the Pan-African Parliament, including the President, H.E Chief Fortune Zephania Charumbira, and the Clerk, Ms. Lindiwe Khumalo, graced the opening ceremony of the workshop, underscoring the importance of this initiative. Their presence highlighted the PAP's commitment to fostering a robust relationship with the media to promote transparency and accountability.
Participants, primarily from the APPN, benefitted from the expert guidance provided by Ms. Janine Lazarus, a renowned media training expert, along with Mr. Jeffrey Onganga from the PAP's Media and Communications Unit. The training culminated in the development and adoption of a common strategy and implementation plan aimed at enhancing the visibility and reporting of PAP activities.
The APPN, a network of journalists and information officers reporting from African Parliaments and National Assemblies, has played a crucial role in improving the visibility of the PAP. Through initiatives such as PAP media briefings, country delegation press conferences, and weekly radio and TV discussion series, the APPN has brought the PAP closer to African citizens. This workshop sought to build on these successes and expand the network's influence to the Southern African region.
Looking ahead, the Pan-African Parliament plans to organize the next media training session for journalists from the West African region, to be held in Ghana. This continued effort underscores the PAP's dedication to ensuring that journalists across the continent are well-informed about its mandate and activities, promoting a more engaged and informed citizenry.
Source: Clement Akoloh||parliamentnews360.com
[post_date_unix] => 1716227520 [post_date] => May 20, 2024 [post_modified] => July 7, 2024 [post_author_url] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/author/parliamentnews360/ [post_author_name] => Clement Akoloh [post_author_email] => senaakoloh@gmail.com [post_comments_no] => 0 [post_comments_link] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/2nd-round-of-pap-appn-media-capacity-building-workshop-held-for-southern-sector/#respond [post_theme_settings] => Array ( ) ) [1863] => Array ( [post_id] => 1863 [post_type] => post [has_post_thumbnail] => 1 [post_thumbnail_id] => 1864 [post_link] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/pan-african-parliament-confident-in-raising-supplementary-budget-to-fulfill-mandate-in-2024/ [post_title] => Pan African Parliament Confident in Raising Supplementary Budget to Fulfill Mandate in 2024 [post_title_attribute] => Pan African Parliament Confident in Raising Supplementary Budget to Fulfill Mandate in 2024 [post_excerpt] => The Pan African Parliament (PAP) is optimistic about securing the necessary funds to carry out its legislative functions following an ongoing Extraordinary Session aimed at re-electing members for its Bureau. [post_content] =>The Pan African Parliament (PAP) is optimistic about securing the necessary funds to carry out its legislative functions following an ongoing Extraordinary Session aimed at re-electing members for its Bureau.
The session, scheduled from March 20th to 27th, 2024, is seen as a crucial step in addressing the financial challenges that have hampered the Parliament's operations.
The PAP has been grappling with financial constraints, leading to the postponement of its quarterly sessions in 2023. Despite the last session being held in May 2023, subsequent sessions have been delayed due to internal leadership issues within the Bureau.
Press Conference
Speaking at a press conference ahead of the Extraordinary Session in Midrand, South Africa, Hon. Lucio Dos Santos, Acting President of PAP from Cape Verde, expressed confidence in the Bureau's ability to raise additional funds.
She stated that the successful elections would demonstrate to the African Union (AU) and other partners the Parliament's commitment, potentially leading to the allocation of a supplementary budget.
Complying with Executive Council decision
“We are complying with the decision of the Executive Council to hold the elections at the latest by the end of March. With this, we will gain a vote of trust from the AU and we will have an open door to request a supplementary budget,” she indicated.
Dos Santos emphasized the importance of securing additional funds, noting that the current budget was insufficient for the ongoing session. She highlighted the Bureau's intention to request a supplementary budget from the AU to support its activities.
She observed, “The budget that we are using for this session is not about our operating budget but given that this is an emerging situation, we had to make the necessary adjustments to the budget so that we could request a supplementary budget from the African Union at a later stage.
The need for additional funds for PAP to run
“We believe that the Ambassadors and ministers of Foreign Affairs are indeed aware of the responsibilities of the Pan-African Parliament and we believe that we are going to get a supplementary budget for 2024 because it doesn’t make sense that this Parliament works without a budget and for committees to implement their programmed activities, they need the budget.
“This is what takes Parliament to the people and the diaspora. So, we are confident that we are going to get a supplementary budget for 2024. But we will also seek the authorization of the AU to mobilize more partnerships to boost the budget for active committee activities and programme budget.”
Vacant positions
The vacant positions of President, First Vice President, and Fourth Vice President of the Bureau, resulting from elections and unconstitutional changes of government in some AU Member States, will be filled under guidelines set by the AU Executive Council.
The Southern Caucus, Northern Caucus, and Central Caucus are expected to fill these positions, respectively, in line with the principle of rotation.
The PAP's efforts to address its financial challenges and ensure the continuity of its operations reflect its commitment to promoting African unity and development.
The successful outcome of the Extraordinary Session and the securing of a supplementary budget will be crucial for the Parliament to fulfill its mandate effectively.
Source: Clement Akoloh||parliamentnews360.com
[post_date_unix] => 1711373307 [post_date] => March 25, 2024 [post_modified] => March 25, 2024 [post_author_url] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/author/parliamentnews360/ [post_author_name] => Clement Akoloh [post_author_email] => senaakoloh@gmail.com [post_comments_no] => 0 [post_comments_link] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/pan-african-parliament-confident-in-raising-supplementary-budget-to-fulfill-mandate-in-2024/#respond [post_theme_settings] => Array ( ) ) [1838] => Array ( [post_id] => 1838 [post_type] => post [has_post_thumbnail] => 1 [post_thumbnail_id] => 1839 [post_link] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/inauguration-of-27th-commonwealth-speakers-and-presiding-officers-conference-cspoc-uganda/ [post_title] => Inauguration of 27th Commonwealth Speakers and Presiding Officers Conference (CSPOC)- Uganda [post_title_attribute] => Inauguration of 27th Commonwealth Speakers and Presiding Officers Conference (CSPOC)- Uganda [post_excerpt] => The inauguration of the 27th Commonwealth Speakers and Presiding Officers Conference (CSPOC) has marked a momentous occasion as it has been unveiled by His Excellency Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the esteemed President of Uganda. The grand opening ceremony has served as a platform for leaders, dignitaries, and representatives from across the Commonwealth to converge and engage in meaningful discussions. [post_content] =>The inauguration of the 27th Commonwealth Speakers and Presiding Officers Conference (CSPOC) has marked a momentous occasion as it has been unveiled by His Excellency Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the esteemed President of Uganda. The grand opening ceremony has served as a platform for leaders, dignitaries, and representatives from across the Commonwealth to converge and engage in meaningful discussions.
The Speaker of Parliament Rt. Hon. Anita Among has played a pivotal role in extending a warm welcome to her counterparts and other distinguished leaders present at the conference. Among other leaders is the Prime Minister of the Republic of Uganda, Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, Cabinet Ministers, Members of Parliament and technical staff from Parliament.
The gathering is not only celebrating the rich diversity within the Commonwealth but also fostering a spirit of collaboration and mutual understanding.
H.E Yoweri Museveni's involvement in inaugurating the conference has underscored the significance of the event on the global stage. His presence has not only added prestige but also highlighted Uganda's commitment to promoting dialogue and cooperation among Commonwealth nations.
The Speaker's welcoming address has set the tone for the conference, emphasizing the shared values and goals that bind Commonwealth countries together. The exchange of ideas and experiences during the conference promised to strengthen the ties between the participating nations, fostering a sense of unity and solidarity.
As leaders engage in discussions over the course of the conference, it is evident that the 27th CSPOC is aimed to address pressing issues facing member nations. The exchange of insights, best practices, and collaborative strategies shall play a crucial role in shaping the future direction of the Commonwealth.
The official opening ceremony, graced by the President of the Republic of Uganda, H.E Museveni and led by the Speaker of Parliament, has not only showcased Uganda's hospitality but also emphasized the nation's dedication to diplomatic initiatives. The event is a testament to the Commonwealth's enduring commitment to democratic values, human rights, and socio-economic development.
In conclusion, the official opening of the 27th Commonwealth Speakers and Presiding Officers Conference is a moment of significance, marked by the presence of President Museveni and the warm welcome extended by the Speaker of Parliament. The conference stands as a beacon of unity, providing a platform for leaders to collaborate, exchange ideas, and collectively address the challenges and opportunities facing the Commonwealth in the 21st century.
[post_date_unix] => 1704450737 [post_date] => January 5, 2024 [post_modified] => January 5, 2024 [post_author_url] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/author/parliamentnews360/ [post_author_name] => Clement Akoloh [post_author_email] => senaakoloh@gmail.com [post_comments_no] => 0 [post_comments_link] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/inauguration-of-27th-commonwealth-speakers-and-presiding-officers-conference-cspoc-uganda/#respond [post_theme_settings] => Array ( ) ) [1738] => Array ( [post_id] => 1738 [post_type] => post [has_post_thumbnail] => 1 [post_thumbnail_id] => 1739 [post_link] => https://parliamentnews360.com/index.php/over-600-delegates-across-the-commonwealth-fraternity-to-attend-the-66th-cpc-conference-in-ghana/ [post_title] => Over 600 Delegates across the Commonwealth Fraternity to attend the 66th CPC Conference in Ghana [post_title_attribute] => Over 600 Delegates across the Commonwealth Fraternity to attend the 66th CPC Conference in Ghana [post_excerpt] => Under the distinguished patronage of the Rt Hon Speaker Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, the Parliament of Ghana will host the 66th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference which will be held from 30th September to 6th October 2023 at the Accra International Conference under the theme: “The Commonwealth Charter 10 years on: Values and Principles for Parliaments to Uphold." [post_content] =>Under the distinguished patronage of the Rt Hon Speaker Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, the Parliament of Ghana will host the 66th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference which will be held from 30th September to 6th October 2023 at the Accra International Conference under the theme: “The Commonwealth Charter 10 years on: Values and Principles for Parliaments to Uphold."
The Rt. Hon. Speaker who also doubles as the President of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) and the President of the Ghana Branch of the Association will preside over the General Assembly on Thursday, 5th October, 2023, and also chair the Elections Committee of the Association. He is also a member of the Executive Committee of the Association and will participate in the deliberations at the Meeting of the Executive Committee.
The 7-day Conference aimed at fostering dialogue and cooperation among member countries to address pressing global challenges within the context of Commonwealth Values will be attended by Speakers and Presiding Officers, Parliamentarians, Clerks-to-Parliaments, Parliamentary Staff, and key Stakeholders in the parliamentary governance sector.
Addressing a Press Conference in Parliament on Tuesday, September 26, 2023, to announce the upcoming international event to be hosted by the Parliament of Ghana on behalf of the Rt. Hon. Speaker, the Clerk to Ghana’s Parliament, Mr. Cyril Kwabena Oteng Nsiah, who doubles as the Ghana Branch Secretary of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, said the conference will emphasize the importance of parliamentary diplomacy in addressing identified challenges and highlight the role of parliaments in shaping policies that benefit their citizens.
According to him, the Parliament of Ghana expects to host about six hundred (600) delegates, observers, and accompanying officials from 56 National Branches (National Legislatures) and 111 Sub-National Branches (State/Provincial Legislatures) across the nine (9) geographic regions of the Commonwealth.
He also noted that the 66th CPC will be held alongside other Conferences, Meetings, and Workshops at the Accra International Conference Centre, including the 66th CPA General Assembly; Meetings of the CPA Executive Committee; 39th CPA Small Branches Conference; Meetings of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP); Meeting of Commonwealth Parliamentarians with Disabilities (CPwD) networks; 57th Meeting of the Society of Clerks at the Table (SoCATT); and Presentation of the 2023 Commonwealth Parliamentarian of the Year awards.
This year’s conference will commence officially with an opening ceremony on Wednesday, 4th October, 2023 under the distinguished patronage of His Excellency the President of the Republic of Ghana and Vice-Patron of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo as the Keynote Speaker.
The opening ceremony will be followed by workshops to discuss various topics relating to security, human rights, environment, economy, gender, and other cross-cutting issues. The Hon. Minister of National Security is expected to lead discussions at the Host nation’s workshop which will be organized by Ghana to deliberate on the topic: Combating the threat of terrorism to Statehood: the Role of Parliament.
Prior to the official opening of the Conference, there will be an Inaugural Lecture in memory of Hon. Emilia Monjowa Lifaka on Monday, 2nd October, 2023 from 19:00 to 20:00 GMT at the Accra International Conference Centre, Ghana.
Hon. Monjowa Lifaka is a former Deputy Speaker of Cameroon who was a passionate champion of the CPA and served as CPA Chairperson from November, 2017 until her demise in April, 2021. The Lecture which is to pay tribute to her is opened to the general public. A paper will be presented by Ms. Betty Abeng, Chief Executive Officer of the Commonwealth Education Trust, with Dr. Leslie Casely-Hayford, a Ghana-based international education development expert as the discussant.
Background Information
In September 2019, the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA), at its 64th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference (CPC) held in Kampala, Uganda adopted a request from Ghana among those from other commonwealth nations to host the 66th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference.
The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA), was founded in 1911 as the Empire Parliamentary Association, which metamorphosed into the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association in 1948.
The Association, which had five (5) branches at its inception, currently has one hundred and eighty-one (180) national and sub-branches across the nine (9) regions of the Commonwealth. The Association has a number of organs including Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians, the CPA Small Branches Network, the Commonwealth Parliamentarians with Disabilities, and the Commonwealth Youth Parliament.
The Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference (CPC), an annual conference of CPA, was first held in the United Kingdom in 1948. The Conference was held bi-annually until 1961 when it became an annual event, organized on a rotational basis in all regions of the Commonwealth across the world.
The CPA Africa Region has hosted the highest number of Conferences. The 66th CPC which will be held in Accra, Ghana will be the 17th time the CPA Africa Region is hosting the Conference.
Source: Clement Akoloh||parliamentnews360.com
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