The proposal to recall Liberian representatives from the ECOWAS Parliament by Majority Bloc Speaker Richard Koon has faced strong opposition during a recent session. The new election of delegates reflects growing internal conflict within the Liberian House, with many lawmakers citing ECOWAS Rule 5, which protects representatives from being recalled post-oath. This dispute signifies ongoing power struggles while underscoring the need for adherence to constitutional processes.
A significant discussion took place at the ECOWAS Parliament regarding the request from Majority Bloc Speaker Richard Koon to recall Liberian representatives. Parliamentarians from various ECOWAS member states urged to maintain the current Liberian delegates, highlighting a growing power struggle within the Liberian House of Representatives. The debate was prompted by the election of three new Liberian lawmakers to replace allies of embattled Speaker Fonati Koffa, indicating a shift in control over Liberia’s representation at ECOWAS.
The Majority Bloc elected Moima Briggs Mensah, Augustine Chiewolo, and Samson Q. Wiah to replace the previous delegates Rev. Samuel Enders and Taa Wongbe, who were appointed under Koffa’s leadership. This action, validated by Koon’s directive, arose from challenges against Koffa’s unilateral appointments, which lacked adequate plenary approval as required by legislative procedures. Many legislators contested the recall, citing ECOWAS Rule 5, which prohibits recalling a member who has already taken the oath of office, except under specific conditions.
Senator Edwin Snowe, Liberia’s senior representative at ECOWAS, voiced concerns about the independence of the regional body from member states’ decisions. He emphasized that internal politics should not interfere with ECOWAS operations, advising President Joseph Boakai to refrain from involvement in the matter. The ECOWAS Parliament acknowledged the house’s communication regarding the representative changes, with the Chief Clerk instructed to forward it to the Secretary-General.
During the session, Hon. Abdul Kargbo of Sierra Leone and Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume of Nigeria reiterated the significance of adhering to ECOWAS rules, proposing that once a representative takes the oath, they cannot be withdrawn unless under severe circumstances. Hon. Sheriff Saar of Gambia stressed that any leadership changes should be constitutionally grounded, asserting that the Speaker retains authority unless a constitutional reason mandates otherwise.
The electoral decision by the Majority Bloc reflects an ongoing effort to challenge Koffa’s previous appointments, which they claim lacked transparency and followed unethical political maneuvering. In contrast, Koffa and his supporters contend that the Majority Bloc’s initiatives are illegal, revealing an underlying conflict within Liberia’s legislative framework and governance.
The debate surrounding the recall of Liberian parliamentarians from the ECOWAS Parliament underscores a significant power struggle within Liberia’s political landscape. The invocation of ECOWAS Rule 5 highlights the complexities of legislative procedures and the independence of regional bodies from national politics. This situation emphasizes the necessity for constitutional adherence and transparent political practices, as the competing factions within Liberia seek to define their legislative representation and authority.
Original Source: frontpageafricaonline.com
