PGA pays tribute to its former President (1995-1996) Hon. Murli Deora of India, who passed away this week after an extremely successful political and institutional career as Parliamentarian, Cabinet Minister and Entrepreneur.

To remember the Statesman and global parliamentary leader, we re-publish the letter that Mr. Deora addressed to the global PGA Membership to welcome the President who replaced him in the presidency of the largest global parliamentary network. His values and commitments to the vision of PGA were clear and strong, as is his legacy within this organization and in his own country, the largest democracy of the world, India.

A Message From PGA's International Presidents: Passing the Torch

Message from 1996 International President, Mr. Murli Deora (India)

One of PGA's roles should be to reinforce the principle of accountability that must exist between the international community, the elected representatives and the local stakeholder-the totality of citizens who have an interest in how their government develops economic and social policy for their nation, in what has become a global economy.

At all times, we parliamentarians try to maintain a broad view of the changing domestic political terrain. In order to effectively articulate a vision for social policy, legislators must negotiate equity issues, social mobility issues, and empowerment issues in an environment of political and economic flux.

Parliamentarians are, above all, intermediaries between the executive branch of government and the needs and aspirations of civil society, and, therefore, are uniquely placed to negotiate this balance. We need only look to PGA's network to recognize the immense influence we can bring to bear on this formidable challenge. It has been a very rewarding two years presiding over such a dynamic network of parliamentarians as PGA.

I am delighted and, indeed, proud that one of the finest politicians from Africa has been elected to lead PGA in 1997. As I pass the torch to Mr. Moses Katjiuongua (Namibia), I wish him the best luck and offer my commitment to work with PGA as a member of civil society.