A high-level delegation from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has concluded a five-day political mission to Liberia, calling for unity and dialogue to resolve the ongoing leadership crisis in the country’s House of Representatives.
Led by Prof. Ibrahim Gambari, a seasoned diplomat and former United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs, the ECOWAS team engaged with key stakeholders, including President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, former Presidents Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and George Weah, as well as lawmakers and international partners.
The mission, deployed by ECOWAS Commission President H.E. Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, followed a recommendation from the 53rd Ordinary Session of the Mediation and Security Council held in Abuja last December. Its goal was to assess the political tensions and encourage constructive dialogue amid a prolonged legislative deadlock.
During their engagements, Prof. Gambari and his team emphasized the need for all parties to uphold Liberia’s hard-earned peace and democratic progress.
“Liberia has come a long way in consolidating its democracy, and this moment calls for wisdom, restraint, and a spirit of compromise,” Prof. Gambari stated after meeting with President Boakai.
The delegation also held discussions with Foreign Minister H.E. Sarah Beysolow Nyanti, leaders of the House of Representatives, and members of the international community. A major point of concern remains the unresolved leadership dispute in the legislature, which has stalled critical governance processes.
In its concluding remarks, the ECOWAS team urged:
- Collaboration among current and former leaders – President Boakai and his predecessors were encouraged to work together in the interest of national stability.
- Respect for the Supreme Court’s ruling – All parties were reminded to abide by the impending judicial decision on the legislative crisis.
- A roadmap to resolve the impasse – Stakeholders were called upon to develop a clear plan to break the deadlock in the House of Representatives.
- International support – ECOWAS appealed to Liberia’s partners to back efforts toward a lasting political solution.
The mission reassured Liberians of ECOWAS’ continued support in fostering peace, good governance, and sustainable development.
“Liberia is a valued member of our community, and ECOWAS stands ready to assist in any way necessary to ensure stability and progress,” said H.E. Josephine Nkrumah, ECOWAS Resident Representative in Liberia.
As the nation awaits the Supreme Court’s decision, observers hope that the ECOWAS intervention will encourage constructive dialogue and avert further political tensions. For many Liberians, the priority remains preserving the peace that has held since the end of the civil war over two decades ago.
The ECOWAS delegation departed Monrovia on Thursday, March 27, with expectations that its recommendations will guide Liberia toward a swift and peaceful resolution.
