Deputy Speaker and Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs, Lenora Qereqeretabua, will represent Fiji at the upcoming 28th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC) set to take place in New Delhi from January 15 to 17, 2026. This event promises to be pivotal as parliamentary leaders from Commonwealth countries gather to strengthen democratic governance and foster cooperation.
Qereqeretabua is stepping in for Speaker Filimone Jitoko, who is unable to attend due to prior commitments, despite an invitation from Shri Om Birla, Speaker of India’s Lok Sabha. Accompanying the Deputy Speaker will be Deputy Secretary-General Abele Sakulu and Manager Tables Saleshni Prasad.
The significance of the CSPOC lies in its role as a forum for enhancing relationships between member nations, particularly highlighting the budding ties between Fiji and India. Fiji’s active participation underscores its commitment to Commonwealth principles and collaborative parliamentary practices. In a demonstration of goodwill, the Fijian Parliament has expressed gratitude to the Government of India for supporting the delegation’s travel expenses.
During the conference, crucial topics such as fairness and impartiality in parliamentary leadership will be discussed, along with strategies for advancing parliamentary democracy. These themes are vital for promoting transparency and accountability, essential elements in the ongoing global quest for democratic values. As discussions unfold, Fiji aims to play an integral role in advocating for these principles among Commonwealth nations, fostering a spirit of collaboration and progress.