Uganda has asked fellow members of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) for their support in hosting the CPA’s headquarters in Kampala. On October 4, 2023, members of Uganda’s Parliament, led by Hon. Enos Asiimwe from Kabula County, submitted the country’s proposal during the 66th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference (CPC) held in Accra, Ghana.
Hon. Asiimwe, who represented Speaker Anita Among, emphasized Uganda’s strategic location and its ability to meet all the necessary requirements for hosting the headquarters. He also highlighted the economic opportunities that come with such a responsibility, including hosting conferences and the potential for infrastructural development.
During the conference, themed ‘The Commonwealth Charter 10 years on: Values and Principles for Parliaments to Uphold,’ more than 500 parliamentarians, parliamentary staff, and decision-makers from Commonwealth countries gathered to discuss critical issues facing their parliaments and societies.
Hon. Asuman Basalirwa, the Bugiri Municipality MP, expressed his belief in Uganda’s suitability to host the CPA headquarters, citing the country’s historical involvement in the East African Community.
It’s worth noting that during the 65th conference, CPA members had suggested relocating the association’s headquarters from Britain to a willing member country.
The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association comprises approximately 180 branches, representing national and sub-national legislatures of Commonwealth member states, organized into nine regions. Currently, the CPA Headquarters Secretariat is located in London.
The CPA conference provided a platform for members to enhance their professional development, engage in supportive learning, and share best practices with counterparts from other Commonwealth parliaments and international organizations. The event also featured workshops addressing critical issues, including global warming, terrorism, human rights, poverty alleviation, and sustainable trade and economic development.
