President Yoweri Museveni opened the 27th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC) in Kampala on January 4, 2024.
During his address, he criticized the philosophical, ideological, and strategic differences among Commonwealth member states, urging for mutual cooperation.
Describing colonialism as a waste of time, Museveni emphasized the need to salvage opportunities instead of succumbing to chauvinism. He condemned greed as a miscalculation that leads to the collapse of empires, labeling them as inherently evil.
Addressing over 30 conference attendees, Museveni called for an end to manipulation and lectures directed at societies different from one’s own, urging influence through example.
He highlighted the positive practices salvaged by veterans of resistance against colonialism, citing the Commonwealth as an example that should foster prosperity among member states.
“A whole century was wasted on account of promoting parasitism instead of symbiosis; stop manipulation and lectures to societies that are different from you; if you think you are right, influence people by your example,” the said.
Museveni emphasized the importance of maintaining beneficial aspects, such as the English language, for easing trade among nations.
“When the dangerous illusions of empires were defeated, the elders of the countries decided not to throw away everything,” he said, adding that the English language is an example of the good things maintained, which could be helpful in easing trade among nations.” he said
He urged them to stop imposing their beliefs on foreign territories, referring to the ongoing crisis in the Middle East as an example of historical mistakes.
Museveni praised the Commonwealth fraternity as a positive practice for widening prosperity among member states and encouraged influencing others by example.
The 27th CSPOC, running until January 6, 2024, focuses on fostering fairness among speakers and presiding officers of the Commonwealth, addressing topics like Climate Change, Youth and Gender Sensitivity, Security Measures, Health and Wellbeing Support, and Building Consensus for Parliamentary Business. Established in 1969, CSPOC operates bi-annually for parliamentary diplomacy discussions.
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