ECOWAS Lawmakers Push for Electoral Reforms to Strengthen Democracy in West Africa

Lawmakers in ECOWAS Demand Electoral Reforms for Stronger Democracy

At the 1st Extraordinary Session of the ECOWAS Parliament in Lagos, regional lawmakers renewed their push for electoral reforms, emphasizing the need for transparency, democratic principles, and a unified governance approach. Representatives from Gambia, Liberia, and Nigeria voiced concerns about electoral integrity and the need for adherence to democratic protocols.

Commitment to Electoral Integrity

Hon. Billay Tunkara, Fourth Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, underscored the body’s commitment to ensuring that member states fully implement electoral protocols. He highlighted that ECOWAS leaders have pledged to uphold democratic principles, making it imperative for the Parliament to oversee their compliance.

“This is the dream of the ECOWAS Parliament. We advocate for electoral reform, best practices, and good governance,” Tunkara stated.

He emphasized the importance of the Protocol on Good Governance, which promotes democracy, transparency, and the rule of law. Tunkara stressed that continuous advocacy is essential to remind leaders of their commitments.

Liberia Deserves Recognition for Electoral Integrity

Senator Edwin Snowe from Liberia raised concerns over the inconsistent recognition of electoral successes in the region. Citing a report by YIAGA Africa, which praised Ghana and Senegal for electoral integrity, Snowe insisted that Liberia also deserved similar commendation.

“Liberia set a brilliant mark. What happened in Liberia was unprecedented, especially considering the challenges in Sierra Leone,” he noted.

While acknowledging imperfections in electoral systems worldwide, he referenced the United States, where former President Donald Trump never conceded to Joe Biden.

“If that is the global standard, then Africa is performing even better,” Snowe remarked, encouraging leaders to take pride in the region’s democratic progress.

He also criticized constitutional amendments that allow leaders to extend their tenure, pointing to cases in Guinea and Côte d’Ivoire.

Call for an ECOWAS-Wide Political Party Alliance

Hon. Agbodike Paschal from Nigeria proposed forming a regional political party alliance to enhance democracy and electoral accountability. According to him, such a coalition would ensure transparent elections across ECOWAS nations.

“We should make it a law that brings together political parties across ECOWAS. This will strengthen democracy and ensure adherence to democratic principles,” Agbodike said.

He linked regional instability and military coups to governance failures, warning that democratic breakdowns often lead to political crises. He called on Nigeria, as a leading ECOWAS member, to support initiatives that promote democratic stability.

Addressing Security Through Good Governance

Agbodike stressed that insecurity in West Africa stems from poor governance, enabling armed groups to exploit weak political structures. He urged ECOWAS leaders to prioritize democracy to curb crime and instability.

“We are suffering from severe insecurity due to bad governance. Armed groups are active along our borders, engaging in criminal activities,” he warned.

Reaffirming his commitment to democratic growth, Agbodike pledged to push for policies that strengthen governance structures across the region.

“As a lawmaker, I am privileged to contribute meaningfully to the growth of ECOWAS and the success we all seek,” he concluded.