09 Mar 2020

 Advances in technology and modern media have enabled many people to witness and enjoy the experience of the Commonwealth connection in areas such as education, medicine and conservation. 

The sentiments were expressed by Commonwealth head and also Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) patron, Queen Elizabeth II in her Commonwealth Day message.

Delivering the message on behalf of the queen in Gaborone yesterday, CPA-Botswana branch chairperson Mr Pono Moatlhodi said the organisation’s occasions had always been a reminder of the diversity of people and countries making up the world family. 

“This is particularly striking when we see people from nations, large and small, gathering for the Commonwealth Games, for meetings of Commonwealth governments and on Commonwealth Day,” he said.

Mr Moatlhodi said such a blend of traditions served to make one stronger, individually and collectively, by providing the ingredients needed for social, political and economic resilience. 

For his part, CPA-Botswana branch vice chairperson, Mr John Thiite said Commonwealth membership started with the United Kingdom and its former colonies but over the years more countries seeking to join the fraternity were accommodated. 

Mr Thiite explained that the Commonwealth was a voluntary association of 54 countries across six continents that supported each other towards shared goals in democracy and development. 

The purpose of the CPA was to connect, develop, promote and support parliamentarians and their staff to identify opportunities for good governance and implementation of the organisation’s enduring values, he said. 

Mr Thiite said CPA activities focused on the Commonwealth’s commitment to its fundamental political values, including just and honest governance, alleviation of poverty as well as fundamental human rights.

Other areas of focus include international peace and order, global economic development, the rule of law, equal rights and representation for all citizens of both genders, the separation of powers among the three branches of government and the right to participate in free and democratic political processes.ENDS