Liberia’s call to recall parliamentarians from the ECOWAS Parliament faced strong opposition from lawmakers citing adherence to ECOWAS Rule 5, which protects representatives from recall after taking the oath. Recent elections have shifted allegiances within Liberia’s House of Representatives, igniting debates about legality and transparency. Key figures within ECOWAS reaffirmed the independence of its rules from internal politics.
In a recent session at the ECOWAS Parliament, Majority Bloc Speaker Richard Koon’s request to recall Liberian parliamentarians drew significant opposition. Lawmakers from various countries urged the Speaker to maintain the current representatives amidst a backdrop of political tensions and shifting alliances within the Liberian House of Representatives.
The Majority Bloc recently elected three new representatives for Liberia at the ECOWAS Parliament, effectively replacing allies of the contested Speaker Fonati Koffa. Newly elected delegates include Moima Briggs Mensah, Augustine Chiewolo, and Samson Q. Wiah, who replace Rev. Samuel Enders and Taa Wongbe. This transition follows a white-ballot election amid allegations of power struggles and unilateral decision-making within the House.
Despite these new appointments, various lawmakers voiced their opposition to the recall, referring to ECOWAS Rule 5. This provision mandates that once a representative has taken the oath, they cannot be recalled except under certain conditions such as resignation or misconduct. Some lawmakers emphasize the significance of this rule in protecting the integrity of representation.
Senator Edwin Snowe, Liberia’s senior representative at ECOWAS, underscored the independence of the regional body from individual member states’ decisions. He advised against political exploitation of the recall issue and cautioned against misinterpretations of authority.
During the parliamentary session, representatives like Hon. Abdul Kargbo and Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume reiterated the importance of adhering to ECOWAS rules regarding representatives’ mandates. They emphasized that once a member takes the oath, recall by their home country is not permissible unless gross misconduct occurs.
The ongoing internal conflict in Liberia regarding appointments has seen the Majority Bloc attempt to overturn decisions made by Speaker Koffa, citing fairness and constitutional issues. However, Koffa and the Rule of Law Caucus argue that these actions contradict established legislative procedures. The political impasse continues as support swings toward Koffa’s appointed lawmakers among their colleagues.
The debate over the recall of Liberian parliamentarians from the ECOWAS Parliament highlights significant political divisions and procedural challenges within Liberia’s legislative body. The ECOWAS Rule 5 serves as a critical protective measure against arbitrary recalls, emphasizing the need for adherence to established protocols. As the Majority Bloc’s actions unfold, the tension between political maneuvering and legislative integrity remains at the forefront of this ongoing conflict.
Original Source: frontpageafricaonline.com
