By Jerromie S. Walters
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Parliament has formally rejected a request from the Liberian House of Representatives, through the leadership of Majority Bloc Speaker Richard Nagbe Koon to recall three of its designated members serving in the regional legislative body. The decision, communicated in a letter dated March 7, 2025, accentuates the strict adherence to the legal framework governing the tenure of ECOWAS parliamentarians.
The request, initially submitted by Mrs. Mildred N. Sayon, Chief Clerk of the Liberian House of Representatives, sought the recall of Honorable Members Samuel R. Enders, Sr., Moima Briggs-Mensah, and Taa Z. Wongbe from their roles in the ECOWAS Parliament. However, in a response signed by Acting Secretary-General K. Bertin Somé, the ECOWAS Parliament cited Article 18.1,2 of the Supplementary Act on the Enhancement of the Powers of the ECOWAS Parliament, which mandates a fixed four-year term for all designated members.
According to the letter, the recall or replacement of parliamentarians before the expiration of their term is only permissible under specific circumstances, including non-re-election at the national level, death, resignation, certified mental or physical incapacity, incompatibility, or dismissal for misconduct. None of these conditions apply to the three Liberian delegates, the letter stated.
“The Honorable Members Samuel R. Enders, Sr., Moima Briggs-Mensah, and Taa Z. Wongbe do not fall under any of the aforementioned circumstances,” the letter read. “Therefore, their replacement cannot be effected.”
The decision reaffirms the ECOWAS Parliament’s commitment to upholding its legal and procedural frameworks, ensuring stability and continuity in its operations. It also highlights the international obligations of member states, including Liberia, to respect the terms of their representatives once they are sworn into the regional body.
The rejection of the recall request has sparked discussions in Monrovia, with some lawmakers expressing concerns over the implications for Liberia’s representation in the regional parliament. However, others have emphasized the importance of adhering to ECOWAS regulations to maintain the integrity of the institution.
The ECOWAS Parliament, established to promote regional integration and democratic governance, comprises representatives from all 15 member states. Its members are designated by their respective national legislatures and serve fixed terms to ensure continuity in addressing regional issues.
In closing, Acting Secretary-General Somé reiterated the ECOWAS Parliament’s commitment to collaboration with Liberia and assured the Chief Clerk of his availability for further clarification.
“I remain at your disposal for any further clarification and assure you, Madam Chief Clerk, of my highest consideration,” the letter concluded.
