The ECOWAS Parliament has formed a committee to address political crises in Guinea-Bissau and Liberia, following serious concerns voiced by parliamentarians regarding growing instability. Legislative leaders emphasized the importance of proactive measures, diplomatic solutions, and electoral reforms to sustain democracy in the region.
During the 2025 First Extraordinary Meeting of the ECOWAS Parliament held in Lagos, concerns were raised regarding the escalating instability in Guinea-Bissau and Liberia. Prominent lawmakers, including Nigerian Senator Ali Ndume, Gambian Fourth Deputy Speaker Billay Tunkara, and Sierra Leonean MP Saa Emerson Lamina, highlighted the necessity for urgent action to preserve democratic processes. The discussions focused on preventing potential military coups due to faltering governmental trust, with Senator Ndume emphasizing the pivotal role of leadership in maintaining democracy.
Senator Ndume remarked on the precarious situation with former President Bola Tinubu’s leadership of ECOWAS, indicating a significant challenge ahead in safeguarding political stability. Concurrently, concerns surrounding Guinea-Bissau’s political landscape were paramount, especially regarding the incumbent president’s refusal to vacate office and proceed with elections. In response, Hon. Billay Tunkara advocated for diplomatic engagement through parliamentary means, urging members to actively support diplomatic resolutions to avert escalating crises.
In light of the situation, an ad hoc committee was established, comprising representatives from all ECOWAS member nations to facilitate immediate interventions. Hon. Saa Emerson Lamina reiterated the need for proactive measures to preempt similar crises, reflecting on the unfortunate departures of member states like Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso from ECOWAS due to political turmoil. Lawmakers also underscored the significance of electoral reforms, focusing on the necessity of transparency and adherence to governance standards by member states.
Furthermore, Tunkara pointed out the advisory role of the ECOWAS Parliament, asserting that member heads of state must act decisively if Guinea-Bissau disregards established recommendations. Overall, with mounting instability, the leaders of ECOWAS are confronted with a crucial opportunity to reinforce democratic values and regional collaboration.
In summary, the ECOWAS Parliament has taken significant steps to address the escalating political crises in Guinea-Bissau and Liberia by establishing a proactive committee and emphasizing the critical role of leadership in maintaining democracy. Lawmakers have underscored the importance of diplomatic engagement and electoral reforms, thereby highlighting the necessity for unity and immediate action among member states to avert further instability.
Original Source: www.pulse.ng
