Deputy Speaker Highlights Role of Parliaments in Peace and Reconciliation at CPA Conference

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Hon. Ahmed Nazim, Deputy Speaker of the People’s Majlis, addressed the Plenary Session of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) International Conference in Pakistan, held from February 3–7, 2026, on the theme “Peace and Democratic Trust: Parliaments as Engines of Reconciliation.”

Deputy Speaker Nazim emphasized that peace is not merely the absence of war, but is sustained through transparent, inclusive, and accountable governance that earns citizens’ confidence. He warned that declining trust in institutions can lead to polarization, unrest, and authoritarianism, particularly in South Asia, and stressed the central role of parliaments as forums for dialogue, reconciliation, and consensus-building.

Reflecting on the Maldives’ experience, he highlighted the peaceful transition to multi-party democracy in 2008, which established the People’s Majlis as a cornerstone of governance and oversight. He noted laws enacted by the Majlis—such as the Freedom of Peaceful Assembly Act, the Anti-Torture Act, and the Gender Equality Act—have reinforced the rule of law and civic space, showing how parliaments can turn democratic values into enforceable rights.

He further underscored the importance of decentralization and local governance in enhancing public participation and social cohesion, adding that peace agreements must be embedded in legal and constitutional frameworks for lasting stability.

Concluding his remarks, Deputy Speaker Nazim affirmed that peace cannot be imposed by force, and democratic trust is built through consistent, accountable action, with strong, inclusive parliaments forming the foundation of reconciliation and sustainable democracy.

During the visit, the People’s Majlis officially assumed the Chairmanship of the CPA Asia Region for the 68th to 71st Commonwealth Parliamentary Conferences at the Regional Executive Committee meeting.