Latest content: Promoting Democracy

The attention of the Commonwealth Secretariat has been drawn to a report dated 25 May 2012, originally published by PR Newswire and since carried by other media outlets, both in Maldives locally and internationally.

As the people of Lesotho go to the polls on Saturday 26 May 2012, I would like, on behalf of the Commonwealth Observer Group which I am leading, to call upon all stakeholders in the electoral process to play their roles with due diligence to ensure that the process on polling day, the counting, the announcement of results and events thereafter go smoothly without incident.

Responding to events this week in Papua New Guinea, Commonwealth Secretary-General Kamalesh Sharma today strongly reiterated his call for respect of the rule of law in that country.  He urged all parties to exercise restraint in their actions and to ensure a peaceful and constructive resolution to the present situation through democratic and lawful processes.

Arrival Statement

Commonwealth observers for the 26 May 2012 elections in Lesotho have called on all stakeholders in the process to act responsibly and shun violence in the lead up to, during and after the polls.

Departure Statement by Sir Donald McKinnon, Commonwealth Special Envoy to Maldives

Anti-corruption agencies from all 19 Commonwealth African countries will share strategies and innovative solutions in tackling corruption at a conference in Livingstone, Zambia, from 21 to 25 May.

Commission of National Inquiry Strengthened

Former Malawian President Bakili Muluzi to lead Commonwealth Observer Group

Commonwealth Secretary General Kamalesh Sharma announced today that former Malawian President Dr Bakili Muluzi will lead the Commonwealth Observer Group to the Lesotho Parliamentary Elections, to be held on 26 May 2012.

Commonwealth Deputy Secretary-General Mmasekgoa Masire-Mwamba, former Ghana President Jerry Rawlings and National Assembly Speakers from Rwanda and Uganda among speakers on strengthening democratic culture in 54-member Commonwealth

There cannot be a properly functioning democracy without a free and responsible press - Commonwealth Secretariat

"Two large, seriously committed organisations that champion the voices and concerns of the marginalised and vulnerable have a crucial contribution to make" - Commonwealth Secretary-General

Statement by the Commonwealth Secretariat Spokesperson

Departure Statement

Concluding Statement

Senior officials from Commonwealth countries advanced the Commonwealth’s reform and renewal agenda this week as they met on 12 and 13 April to examine recommendations to strengthen the association.

Commonwealth Secretary-General Kamalesh Sharma has welcomed the peaceful transition in Malawi and congratulated President Joyce Banda on assuming the leadership of the country, following the sudden death of President Bingu wa Mutharika.

The Spokesperson for Commonwealth Secretary-General Kamalesh Sharma says the Secretary-General is closely monitoring developments in Papua New Guinea, and is concerned that the rule of law, including constitutional democracy and the independence of the judiciary be steadfastly upheld.

‘Act in the best interests of the nation’ – Sir Donald McKinnon

Commonwealth Special Envoy Rt Hon Sir Donald McKinnon attended the opening of the Majlis -- the Maldives Parliament -- today.

The Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group held a teleconference today, to continue its consideration of the situation in Maldives.

The Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group held a teleconference today, to continue its consideration of the situation in Maldives. Statement by the Acting Chair.

“The visit has enabled me to gain a direct and up-to-date understanding of developments in Fiji. I have heard differing perspectives on some issues, but a welcome willingness among all to find ways to move Fiji forward” - Commonwealth Deputy Secretary-General

Commonwealth Deputy Secretary-General Mmasekgoa Masire-Mwamba concluded her three-day visit to Fiji on 9 March.