National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has called for renewed unity and commitment to democracy within the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA), urging member states to build stronger, more inclusive institutions.
Speaking while leading the Kenyan delegation to the ongoing 68th CPA Conference in Barbados, hosted by the Parliament of Barbados and the CPA Barbados Branch, Wetang’ula emphasised the need for solidarity and shared purpose among Commonwealth nations.
“Solidarity must be our guiding principle. We must not drop the ball, not just as leaders, but as a people. Integrity is discipline. We must be honest with our citizens, listen to them, and truly feel their concerns, for only those who feel the people can know them.” said Wetang’ula.
The Speaker further noted that leadership requires humility and inclusivity, saying, “Sometimes, when you hold power, you must take a step back to bring others on board.”
On the sidelines of the conference, Speaker Wetang’ula held talks with Stephen Twigg, Secretary-General of the CPA, where he reaffirmed Kenya’s unwavering commitment to the association’s values and applauded the Secretariat for organising a successful conference.
“Our discussions focused on strengthening Kenya’s participation in CPA programmes and deepening cooperation in areas such as good governance, gender equality, youth engagement, climate action, and inclusion of persons with disabilities,” he said.
The CPA Secretary-General praised Kenya for its active role in advancing parliamentary democracy within the Commonwealth, noting its leadership within the CPA Africa Region.
Wetang’ula was accompanied by MPs Beatrice Adagala (Vice-Chairperson of the CPA Africa Region Executive Committee), Zaheer Jhanda, Naisula Lesuuda and Tim Wanyonyi.
The delegation later attended the 3rd Emilia Monjowa Lecture, held in honour of the late Deputy Speaker of Cameroon and former CPA International Executive Committee Chairperson.
The lecture, presided over by Barbados Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley, emphasised the importance of integrity and citizen engagement in governance.
“Integrity is discipline. Governments must build systems that engage citizens, not alienate them,” said Mottley, who also called for equitable funding for political parties that achieve a significant share of the popular vote, even if they do not win parliamentary seats.
CPA Vice-Patron Dame Sandra Mason commended the association’s 114-year legacy in promoting parliamentary democracy and highlighted the importance of youth participation in shaping the Commonwealth’s future.
The Barbados Parliament last hosted the CPA Conference in 1989. This year’s 68th edition brings together parliamentarians from over 180 Commonwealth legislatures to deliberate on key global political and governance issues.
Through annual conferences, the CPA continues to foster collaboration, knowledge sharing, and democratic growth across member parliaments, anchored on the enduring values of inclusivity, integrity, and good governance.
