Speaker Among asks Parliaments to anchor peace, end global conflicts

Speaker of the Parliament of Uganda, the Rt Hon Anita Among, has called on her counterparts in the Commonwealth to take the lead in delivering a peaceful, conflict free world.

She was speaking at the closure of the 27th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC) at the Munyonyo Commonwealth Resort in Kampala on Saturday, 06 January 2024.

Speakers attending the Plenary.

“The world has witnessed severe geo-political changes, characterised by increased violence and wars, especially in the Middle East and part of Europe. As Parliaments, we cannot afford to sit and act as bystanders,” Among said.

She also rallied the Speakers and Presiding Officers to advocate for respect of other states’ values, cultures and traditions, saying differences in perspectives should happen within the bounds of friendship.

Among pledged Parliament of Uganda’s commitment to support cooperation among Commonwealth legislatures. “As the Parliament of Uganda, we shall strengthen Parliamentary diplomacy through the various Inter Parliamentary bodies at our disposal, including the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association. We shall advocate for unity, diversity, greater respect for people and greater co-existence, “she said.

Speaking to diverse and inclusive Parliaments, Speaker, Among who made reference to Sustainable Development Goal, three, said there ought to be deliberate steps to promote youth engagement in Parliamentary for continuity.

She cited, among other strategies, Uganda Parliament’s efforts through the annual Youth Parliament where youth leaders across the country participate in a moot plenary session.