By Jerromie S. Walters
Monrovia, Liberia – The Plenary of the House of Representatives of the 55th National Legislature has elected three lawmakers to represent Liberia (HOR) at the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Parliament. The newly elected representatives are Bong County District #6 Representative Moima Briggs-Mensah, Lofa County District #5 Representative Augustine B. Chiewolo, and Sinoe County District #2 Representative Samson Q. Wiah.
The elections took place during the House’s regular session on Tuesday, February 25, 2025. The lawmakers were elected on a white ballot, following nominations that adhered to ECOWAS requirements for representation from the ruling party, a major opposition party, and an independent lawmaker, as well as a 30% gender representation mandate. Unlike her male counterparts, Representative Briggs-Mensah was not present.
New Delegates and Their Roles
Representative Moima Briggs-Mensah (Bong County, District #6), as an independent lawmaker, was elected to continue her role at the ECOWAS Parliament. She previously served alongside outgoing delegates Rep. Samuel Enders (Montserrado County, District #6) and Rep. Taa Wongbe (Nimba County, District #9).
Representative Augustine B. Chiewolo (Lofa County, District #5), represents the ruling Unity Party (UP) and Representative Samson Q. Wiah (Sinoe County, District #2) represents the opposition Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC). They both replace Rep. Samuel Enders and Rep. Taa Wongbe.
Election Process and Criteria
The election process was conducted in line with ECOWAS guidelines, which emphasize inclusivity and gender balance. Each delegate was nominated by their colleagues based on their political affiliation.
The elections come amid ongoing tensions within the House of Representatives, with the selection process for ECOWAS Parliament representatives being one of the “Majority Bloc” major concerns for removing embattled Speaker Koffa. The “Majority Bloc” has criticized the previous selection of delegates, alleging that they were handpicked by Koffa rather than elected through a transparent process as mandated by ECOWAS.
The newly elected delegates are expected to address critical regional issues, including economic integration, peace and security, and governance while advocating for Liberia’s interests on the regional stage. They are expected to assume their roles at the ECOWAS Parliament, where they will join representatives from other member states to deliberate on regional policies and initiatives.
