The upcoming Speaker’s and Presiding Officers Conference (CSPOC) is set to fortify ties among Commonwealth Parliaments as Speakers and Presiding Officers engage in bilateral and multilateral meetings. Scheduled to take place from January 3 to January 6, 2024, at the Speke Resort, Munyonyo, Uganda will host the 27th Conference. Hon. Abdu Katuntu, Chairperson of the Coordination Committee, emphasized Uganda’s commitment to fostering collaboration with other parliaments, aiming to build alliances and enhance diplomatic relationships with participating countries.
During a plenary sitting on Tuesday, November 28, 2023, Katuntu revealed that 40 Speakers and Presiding Officers from 33 countries had confirmed their attendance, with ongoing efforts to profile and accredit the delegates. Highlighting the potential economic benefits, Katuntu underscored the increased tourism and business opportunities accompanying the high-profile event. He emphasized the role of CSPOC in promoting globalization, facilitating cooperation in economics, public affairs, security, and parliamentary diplomacy.
Kampala Central Division MP, Hon. Muhammad Nsereko, acknowledged the significance of hosting the conference as a testament to Speaker Anita Among’s leadership but urged swift improvements in infrastructure. Speaker Among expressed confidence in Uganda’s readiness to host the conference, while Government Chief Whip, Hon. Hamson Obua, assured ongoing efforts to enhance infrastructure, including road repairs and lighting on the expressway.
Minister of State for Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, Martin Mugarra, highlighted Uganda’s ranking as the sixth-best country in Africa for hosting meetings and events. He reassured attendees about the availability and classification of suitable hotels for the conference. CSPOC, established in 1969, involves the Speakers and Presiding Officers of national parliaments from independent sovereign states of the Commonwealth, comprising 22 bicameral parliaments and 30 unicameral parliaments.
