The chairperson of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) Dr. Christopher Kalila, MP says the future of the Association is bright, citing the impending new international legal personality of the CPA.

Dr. Kalila made the remarks on Monday, 12th May 2025, during a reception hosted by the Speaker of the House of Commons, Rt. Hon. Sir Lindsay Hoyle, MP, for the CPA International Executive Committee. The Lukulu East lawmaker stated that since his election as CPA Chairperson at the 67th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference in November last year, the Association had achieved several key milestones.

He noted that the CPA Status Bill passed its Third Reading in the House of Commons in December 2024 and has since received Royal Assent, becoming an Act of Parliament. He added that the final step involves enacting secondary legislation to formally grant the CPA international legal personality, along with specific Privileges and Immunities the Association has tirelessly fought for.

Also speaking at the event, Sir Lindsay Hoyle said the presence of the CPA International Executive Committee in London for its mid-year meeting was a powerful reminder of the important work the CPA continues to undertake. He noted that the Association plays a vital role in promoting parliamentary democracy and good governance to strengthening parliaments, promoting dialogue, development and learning among legislators across the Commonwealth.

The CPA International Executive Committee met in London from 12th to 14th May, 2025 for its mid-year meeting. The agenda included discussions on the strategic direction of the CPA as it transitions to its new international legal status, reviewing the Association’s audit and financial records and planning for the 68th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference, scheduled to take place in October, 2025, in Barbados.