The Parliament of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has opened its 2025 Second Ordinary Session in Abuja with a firm commitment to the welfare of citizens and a strong condemnation of the recent military takeover in Guinea-Bissau.
Firm Stance Against Unconstitutional Takeovers
Addressing the assembly, the Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, Honourable Mémounatou Ibrahima, described the coup in Guinea-Bissau as an unacceptable attack on democracy and a direct threat to stability in West Africa. She reiterated the bloc's principle of zero tolerance for unconstitutional changes of government.
"I strongly condemn the unlawful seizure of power in Guinea-Bissau," Speaker Ibrahima stated. "The ECOWAS Parliament fully aligns itself with the decisions taken by the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government. We stand resolutely with the people of Guinea-Bissau." She promised that the Parliament would work to ensure democracy is not only restored but firmly safeguarded in the country.
Celebrating Milestones Amidst Challenges
The First Deputy Speaker, Jibrin Barau, outlined a packed agenda for the session, which includes deliberations on the 2026 Community Budget and marking the Parliament's 25th Anniversary. He paid tribute to the founders of the institution, noting that the silver jubilee is a moment to assess progress and reinforce cohesion among member states.
However, Barau balanced this celebration with a sober analysis of regional challenges. "While we celebrate democratic gains... we must also acknowledge the enormity of the persistent challenges within our community, namely insecurity, economic crises, effects of climate change, and fragile democratic transitions," he said.
Contrasting Democratic Paths: Côte d'Ivoire, Guinea, and Guinea-Bissau
In his remarks, Deputy Speaker Barau highlighted the contrasting political situations within the region. He commended Côte d'Ivoire for its peaceful presidential election and congratulated President Alassane Ouattara.
He also noted the upcoming presidential election in Guinea on December 28, following the 2021 military takeover, calling it a decisive step towards restoring constitutional order. He praised the resilience of the Guinean people and government.
This positive outlook was sharply contrasted with the situation in Guinea-Bissau. Barau echoed the Speaker's condemnation, stressing that the attempted subversion of the people's will after a peaceful electoral process cannot be tolerated.
Both speakers emphasized the Parliament's core mandate: to represent the people, deliberate on their behalf, and defend their interests. They called for unity, accountability, and deeper regional integration as the necessary response to the multifaceted crises facing West Africa.
"The future of our region depends not only on the decisions we make but also on the courage with which we act to ensure that these decisions resonate meaningfully with our people," Barau concluded, calling for renewed commitment to a region where democracy thrives, peace is sustainable, and prosperity is shared.
