Malawi hosts Commonwealth Africa parliamentary conference

The Malawi Parliament is hosting the 55th Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) Africa Region Conference and Annual General Meeting in Lilongwe. The event has drawn more than 300 delegates, including Speakers, Senators, and parliamentary officials from 17 CPA Africa Region branches, such as South Africa, Mauritius, Sierra Leone, and Nigeria.

During the opening of the conference at the Bingu International Convention Centre, Malawi Speaker and CPA Africa Region President Sameer Suleman addressed the erosion of public trust in democratic institutions across the continent. Under the theme ‘Renewing the Social Contract: Parliaments as Catalysts for Inclusive Growth and Citizen Trust,’ Suleman urged legislatures to strengthen accountability, inclusion, and responsiveness to reconnect with their citizens.

He warned that failing to address public concerns and the demands of younger generations for greater participation could fuel disillusionment and threaten democratic stability. The gathering aims to facilitate regional cooperation, discuss common legislative challenges, and explore reforms to improve parliamentary effectiveness and democratic governance.