By Fatima Kpaka
Monrovia, Liberia — In a momentous step towards deeper regional integration and democratic governance, the four Mano River Union (MRU) countries—Sierra Leone, Liberia, Guinea, and Côte d’Ivoire—have unanimously signed a declaration establishing the MRU Regional Parliament. The signing ceremony took place on July 20, 2025, at the Ministerial Complex in Monrovia, signifying a shared commitment to shaping a unified and effective framework for governance and collaboration across the sub-region.
Described as a new chapter for citizen engagement and parliamentary solidarity, the declaration emphasizes democratic representation, legal harmonization, and enhanced regional cooperation. The initiative seeks to complement the actions of member states’ executive leadership and foster inclusive dialogue and peacebuilding throughout West Africa.
Speakers Embrace Vision for Unified Representation
Rt. Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas, Speaker of Parliament of Sierra Leone, hailed the move as timely and visionary. “Our shared borders come with shared burdens—youth unemployment, fragile security, climate vulnerability, and the urgent need for infrastructure,” he stated. He underscored that a regional legislative platform would advance democratic oversight, harmonized laws, and coordinated policy responses, while promoting youth and gender inclusion, environmental stewardship, and unified positions on continental initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area and Agenda 2063.
Hon. Richard Nagbe Koon, Speaker of Liberia’s House of Representatives, lauded the parliament’s potential as a bridge for human development and environmental protection. “Let today mark the dawn of a new era in parliamentary diplomacy,” he said, urging investment in both participation and resources, especially for protocols supporting women and green policies. He emphasized the need for enhanced cooperation to break down gender barriers and promote inclusive legislative work.
Speakers of Guinea’s Transitional National Council and Côte d’Ivoire’s National Assembly also signed the declaration, reaffirming their nations’ commitment to the MRU vision.
Draft Protocol Charts Legislative Structure
According to the draft protocol, the MRU Parliament will comprise members from each national legislature, with proportional representation ranging from five to fifteen delegates per country. These appointments will mirror the political and gender composition of their respective parliaments, in accordance with their constitutions and internal procedures.
Each member will serve a four-year term, renewable once. Their duties include debating and passing regional legislation, monitoring implementation of MRU projects, engaging in peace and security dialogues, and aligning national laws for cohesive regional progress. Members will also promote transparency and represent MRU interests in broader African and global platforms.
Privileges, Structure and Legislative Focus
Parliamentarians will enjoy immunity for actions carried out in their official capacity, and protection against arrest or legal actions during official duties or transit. The parliament’s key organs include:
- General Assembly: The primary decision-making body of MRUP
- The Bureau: Composed of a President and three Vice Presidents, rotated among member states
- Standing Committees: Covering Peace and Security; Regional Integration and Development; Gender and Social Protection; Environment and Sustainability; Legal Affairs and Human Rights; Blue Economy; Health; IT and Cyber Security; Finance and Administration
Commitment to Regional Advancement
The MRU Parliament will be administered by a dedicated Secretariat led by a Clerk. Its plenary sessions will debate urgent sub-regional matters including climate change, youth empowerment, infrastructure, and cross-border collaboration. The body will issue resolutions, declarations, and recommend policy actions to MRU heads of state and the Council of Ministers.
As Speaker Thomas aptly concluded, “Integration is not a gift—it is a responsibility.” The signing of this declaration signals a resolute commitment to building a united, democratic, and resilient Mano River Union.