The ECOWAS Parliament is to receive new representatives from Liberia.
By Bridgett Milton
Monrovia, Liberia, February 26, 2025—The House of Representatives has elected three lawmakers to represent Liberia at the ECOWAS Parliament, replacing embattled Speaker Fonati Koffa’s allies.
The decision was reached through a white-ballot process. It follows internal political disputes over legislative authority and Liberia’s representation in the regional body.
The newly elected Representatives are Moima Briggs Mensah of Bong County District # 6, Augustine Chiewolo of Lofa County District #5, from the ruling Unity Party, and Rep. Samson Q. Wiah of Sinoe County District #2, representing the opposition CDC.
Both Representative Chiewolo and Wiah replace Rev. Samuel Enders and Taa Wongbe, both of whom were selected under Cllr. Koffa’s leadership.
The new lawmakers will represent Liberia in ECOWAS policy discussions on trade, security, governance, and regional integration.
The election follows a contentious ruling by majority lawmakers under Speaker Richard Nagbe Koon, which ordered withdrawal of the previous representatives. Lawmakers Johnson S.N. Williams and James Kolleh filed a formal complaint, arguing that Koffa’s selections were made without plenary’s approval and failed to ensure proper political representation.
The recall of Koffa’s allies is seen as a significant shift in the House’s power dynamics, as lawmakers move to assert greater control over the country’s delegation to the ECOWAS Parliament.
It may be recalled that Senator Edwin Snowe, Liberia’s most senior lawmaker at the ECOWAS Parliament, strongly opposed the recall, warning that ECOWAS operates independently and may not recognize the decision.
Snowe cautioned against using internal political disputes as justification for recalling representatives and urged President Joseph Boakai to remain neutral in the matter.
“The ECOWAS Parliament is governed by its own rules, and not even the current ECOWAS Chairman, Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, can enforce such a recall.” Snowe had said.
Despite the decision, reports suggest that the ECOWAS Parliament may reject the recall attempt, citing procedural concerns. If the regional body refuses to accept the changes, Liberia’s representation could be thrown into uncertainty, weakening its influence in ECOWAS affairs.
For now, the newly elected lawmakers are set to assume their roles, but the controversy surrounding their selection highlights ongoing political tensions within the legislature. Editing by Jonathan Browne
