-Urges Lawmakers to Seize Opportunity for Legislative Resolution
Monrovia, Liberia – Solidarity and Trust for a New Day (STAND), Liberia’s leading grassroots civil society organization, has praised the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) for its timely intervention in the country’s ongoing political turmoil, particularly the leadership crisis that has hindered legislative functions.
In a statement released today, STAND expressed its gratitude to H.E. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, President of Nigeria and current Chair of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State, for his decisive leadership in directing the ECOWAS Parliament to take swift action in addressing the crisis. The organization has consistently urged members of the House of Representatives to prioritize the needs of the public over internal conflicts, and it views ECOWAS’s involvement as a crucial step toward restoring stability.
STAND also commended Rt. Hon. Hadja Memounatou Ibrahima, Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, for her prompt decision to dispatch a delegation to Monrovia. This intervention not only reflects ECOWAS’s commitment to Liberia’s democratic development but also highlights its dedication to maintaining peace, security, and stability across West Africa.
In light of the delegation’s arrival, STAND encourages members of Liberia’s House of Representatives to view this as a pivotal opportunity to resolve the ongoing legislative deadlock. The organization acknowledged the contributions of H.E. Josephine Nkrumah, ECOWAS Resident Representative in Liberia, and Senator Edwin M. Snowe, Chair of the ECOWAS Parliament’s Committee on Political Affairs, Peace, Security, and the African Peer Review Mechanism, for facilitating this important intervention.
“The responsibility now rests with our lawmakers and legislative leaders to seek a constructive resolution to the current impasse,” STAND emphasized. The organization urged lawmakers to avoid any delays or obstructions in the resolution process, recognizing ECOWAS’s long-standing support for Liberia, especially during its 14-year civil conflict, and its enduring commitment to the nation’s stability.
In conclusion, STAND reiterated the urgent need for the legislature to resolve the leadership dispute, allowing lawmakers to refocus their efforts on addressing the pressing challenges faced by ordinary Liberians.
