Latest content: Promoting Democracy

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. Statement by the Acting Chair.

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

“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.

Deputy Secretary-General arrives in Suva for talks with the Government of Fiji and others

Video: Dr. Mohammed Ibn Chambas, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Office for West Africa

Parliament is the heart of a democracy. The Commonwealth finds it unacceptable that the State Opening of the Majlis of Maldives has been disrupted, and the offices of the President and Speaker have been seriously disrespected.

Commonwealth Secretary-General Kamalesh Sharma announced today the appointment of the Rt Hon Sir Donald McKinnon as his Special Envoy to Maldives, following consultations with political leaders in Maldives.

The Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG) met in extraordinary session in London today to consider its response to the situation in Maldives.

Ministers to discuss findings of ministerial mission

Departure statement by CMAG ministerial mission

Arrival statement of the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group to Maldives