MONROVIA – Amid growing concerns over the ongoing parliamentary deadlock within Liberia’s House of Representatives, the Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, His Excellency Ahmed Bola Tinubu, has authorized a high-level mediation mission to Monrovia. This diplomatic initiative, a reflection of ECOWAS’ commitment to regional stability, aims to address the legislative paralysis that threatens to undermine Liberia’s democratic progress and governance.
Leveraging the powers granted by the ECOWAS Supplementary Act on the Enhancement of Parliamentary Powers, President Tinubu entrusted the Speaker of ECOWAS Parliament, Rt. Hon. Hadja Memounatou Ibrahima, to lead a delegation to facilitate peaceful dialogue among Liberian stakeholders. The delegation included Hon. Billay G. Tunkara, 4th Deputy Speaker; Hon. Nassirou Bako-Arifari; Hon. Califa Seidi; and Her Excellency Ambassador Josephine Nkrumah, ECOWAS Commission Resident Representative in Liberia. This mission underscores ECOWAS’ recognition of Liberia’s parliamentary democracy as one of Africa’s oldest, with a legacy of resilience and democratic consolidation.
During the mission, the delegation engaged a wide array of stakeholders to foster dialogue and encourage a resolution. Courtesy visits were paid to President Joseph N. Boakai, Chief Justice Sie-A-Nyene Gyapay Yuoh, and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sara Beysolow Nyanti. Additionally, consultations were held with Senate Pro-Tempore Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence, Speaker J. Fonati Koffa, the “Minority Bloc” and “Majority Bloc” of the House of Representatives, and the Liberian National Civil Society Council.
Despite Liberia’s peaceful transfer of executive power following the November 2023 presidential elections, the legislative stalemate has paralyzed the House of Representatives, hindering broader government functions and increasing public unease. The ECOWAS delegation expressed grave concerns over this impasse, noting that such a crisis undermines national unity and development at a time when Liberia faces critical challenges requiring legislative attention.
The ECOWAS delegation facilitated multiple rounds of dialogue, seeking common ground between the opposing factions in the House of Representatives. However, despite these concerted efforts, no resolution was achieved within the mission’s timeframe. The delegation remains resolute in its commitment to achieving a peaceful resolution and has called on all parties to act in accordance with Liberia’s 1986 Constitution and the House of Representatives’ Rules of Procedure.
The delegation emphasized the urgent need for members of the House of Representatives to prioritize the Liberian people’s best interests, focusing on unity, peace, and national development. It also stressed the importance of adhering to due process and upholding the rule of law in resolving the legislative impasse.
Acknowledging Liberia’s historical resilience, the ECOWAS delegation urged the Liberian populace to remain patient and calm during this challenging period. The mission reiterated its solidarity with the people of Liberia and reaffirmed its optimism that the parliamentary crisis would be resolved in the nation’s interest and in alignment with the principles of the broader ECOWAS community.
The ECOWAS mediation mission demonstrates the regional body’s commitment to maintaining stability in its member states. While immediate resolution proved elusive, the delegation’s efforts reflect a broader vision of fostering dialogue, promoting governance, and preserving the democratic fabric of Liberia. ECOWAS remains steadfast in supporting Liberia on its journey toward sustainable peace and development. Done in Monrovia, Saturday, 16 November 2024.
