By Wendy Mkandawire
Speaker of the National Assembly and President of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) Africa Region, Right Honourable Sameer Suleman, MP, has called on African parliaments to renew the social contract with citizens by strengthening accountability, inclusivity, and responsiveness.
Suleman made the remarks on Tuesday, 12th August 2026, during the official opening of the 55th CPA Africa Region Conference and Annual General Meeting at the Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe.
Speaking in an interview after the opening, Suleman said Members of Parliament must demonstrate loyalty and transparency to regain public trust.
He noted that citizens in some African countries have lost confidence in their MPs, and said the conference should provide a platform for legislators to reflect on their conduct and reconnect with the people they serve.
“The conference should go beyond adopting resolutions. It should be a turning point for parliaments to reconnect with citizens and strengthen democratic institutions,” Suleman said.
Meanwhile, Suleman commended the Government of Malawi for hosting its first-ever CPA regional conference, describing it as an “eye-opener” for MPs on how to effectively execute their duties.
The 55th CPA Africa Region Conference has brought together Speakers, Presiding Officers, Members of Parliament, Clerks, and parliamentary officials from 17 CPA Africa Region branches to deliberate on issues affecting parliamentary democracy and development.
