Kalila warns of declining public trust in democracies at regional conference in Pakistan

Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) Chairperson, Dr. Christopher Kalila, has raised concern over the global decline in public trust in democratic institutions. Kalila said Parliaments carry a special responsibility—not only to legislate, but to listen; not merely to govern, but to serve the people.

The UPND Lukulu East lawmaker reportedly made the remarks during the official opening of the 7th CPA Asia and 2nd Joint CPA Asia and South East Asia Regional Conference in Karachi, Pakistan. He said that where trust had been weakened and democratic institutions’ reliability questioned, rebuilding confidence required openness, ethical leadership, and a renewed commitment to the public interest. “Parliaments of the future must truly reflect the diversity of the societies they represent,” Kalila stated.

Emphasising the centrality of trust, he added: “At the heart of democracy lies trust. Trust between citizens and their institutions.” Kalila noted that citizens must have confidence in the integrity of elections, transparency in decision-making, and accountability of those entrusted with power. He further stressed the importance of broad-based participation in governance:“Women, young people, persons with disabilities, ethnic and religious minorities must see themselves not only as voters, but as active participants in democratic life,” he said.

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The Speaker of the National Assembly of Pakistan, Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, echoed Kalila’s sentiments on the importance of inclusion in Commonwealth Parliaments. Sadiq pointed out that over 65 percent of the Commonwealth population is under the age of 30, yet only 2 to 3 percent of Parliamentarians worldwide are youths. “The current state of affairs is a democratic deficit, and it is the responsibility of Parliamentarians to bridge the existing gap,” he said.

The 7th CPA Asia and 2nd Joint CPA Asia and South East Asia Regional Conference is taking place from 3rd to 7th February 2026 under the theme “Parliaments of the Future: Redefining Democracy through Trust, Inclusion, Innovation and Peace.” Throughout the conference, Commonwealth Parliamentarians from Asia and South East Asia will be discussing key issues including peace and democratic trust; gender, technology and trust; parliamentary education; and legislating for survival. The conference will conclude with the adoption of the Karachi Charter, which is expected to serve as a guiding framework for Parliaments in Asia and South East Asia as they navigate issues of trust, inclusion, innovation, and peace.

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