The ECOWAS Parliament convened to address rising instability in Guinea-Bissau and Liberia, establishing an ad hoc committee for immediate intervention. Key lawmakers emphasized proactive measures, leadership roles, and electoral reforms to maintain democratic principles. The discourse highlighted the urgent need for diplomatic solutions to avert potential crises in the region.
At the closing session of the 2025 First Extraordinary Meeting of the ECOWAS Parliament in Lagos, concerns were raised about the escalating instability in Guinea-Bissau and Liberia. Senator Ali Ndume, along with Gambian Deputy Speaker Billay Tunkara and Sierra Leonean MP Saa Emerson Lamina, highlighted the urgent need for proactive measures to protect democracy in these nations.
Senator Ndume emphasized the pivotal role of leadership in averting unconstitutional takeovers, declaring, “There’s no better option than democracy. The problem is in leadership. Military takeovers happen when people lose faith in their government.” He cautioned that under Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu, ECOWAS faces critical challenges in maintaining stability in the region.
Political tensions in Guinea-Bissau were a focal point, with rising fears of a coup due to the current president’s refusal to step down and conduct elections. Billay Tunkara stressed the necessity of parliamentary diplomacy, asserting, “It is high time Parliaments globally advocated for diplomatic solutions. We cannot sit and watch this crisis unfold.”
The ECOWAS Parliament established an ad hoc committee composed of representatives from all member states, aimed at facilitating immediate intervention. Hon. Saa Emerson Lamina advocated for the implementation of early warning mechanisms to address potential crises proactively, lamenting the departure of nations such as Mali and Niger from ECOWAS due to instability.
Lawmakers addressed the need for electoral reforms, emphasizing transparency and adherence to good governance protocols ratified by member states. Tunkara noted that while the ECOWAS Parliament serves in an advisory capacity, compliance by heads of state is essential. He warned, “If Guinea-Bissau refuses to heed recommendations, the authority of heads of state must step in.” As instability grows, ECOWAS leaders face a critical moment in their quest to secure democracy and regional unity.
The establishment of an ad hoc committee by the ECOWAS Parliament underscores the urgency for intervention in Guinea-Bissau and Liberia to prevent political crises. Key lawmakers emphasize the importance of effective leadership, adherence to democratic principles, and the need for early warning mechanisms to avert future turmoil. This moment presents significant challenges for ECOWAS in its commitment to safeguarding stability and democracy in the region.
Original Source: www.pulse.ng
