The ECOWAS Parliament has renewed its call for stronger legislative and oversight powers, saying greater institutional authority is needed to make the regional legislature more representative and responsive to citizens.
The call was made on Tuesday when President of Senegal and Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, Bassirou Diomaye Diakhar Faye, visited the Parliament.
Welcoming Faye, Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, Memounatou Ibrahima, highlighted his priorities for the region, including collective security, dialogue, regional cohesion, economic sovereignty and political stability.
She, however, drew attention to what she described as the institutional limitations of the Parliament, 25 years after its establishment.
“However, 25 years after its creation, the ECOWAS Parliament remains essentially a consultative body and, up to this point, does not have all the prerogatives of a fully-fledged legislative body,” Ibrahima said.
She said strengthening the Parliament’s legislative and oversight functions would enhance the credibility and legitimacy of ECOWAS institutions.
According to her, the region needs a Parliament that is stronger, more representative and better positioned to contribute to achieving the objectives of the Community.
Nigeria’s Deputy President of the Senate and First Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, Senator Barau Jibrin, also said Faye’s visit could deepen engagement between the Parliament and the regional Heads of State and Government.
Barau called for continued efforts to strengthen the role of the Parliament and foster closer relations between ECOWAS institutions and citizens.
Responding, Faye commended the Parliament for its contribution to regional integration, particularly its role in monitoring Community policies, conflict prevention, mediation and legislative harmonisation.
He described the ECOWAS Parliament as the “Assembly of the Peoples”, noting its role in promoting democracy, regional dialogue, political stability, peace and social cohesion.
Faye assured the Parliament of his support in his capacity as Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, particularly in implementing its plans of action.
The Senegalese President also accepted an invitation to address the Parliament at a subsequent plenary session, where he is expected to present his vision for the future of the West African region.
