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By Oscar Okhifo,
The parliament of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has taken a major step to reinforce transparency, accountability, and effective governance within its framework structures.
Part of the new rules is that members who miss one-third of an ordinary session without justification now risk disciplinary action, including suspension of sitting allowances.
At a meeting in the ongoing First Ordinary Session of 2025 in Abuja on Wednesday, the regional lawmakers unanimously adopted a revised version of their Rules of Procedure.
The updated document was presented by the
Chair of the Ad Hoc Committee behind the reforms, Honourable Billay G Tunkara, who also serves as Fourth Deputy Speaker.
The new rules also promote gender and language balance in committee appointments, prohibit derogatory remarks towards fellow members and Heads of State, and formalize a dress code reflecting the Parliament’s dignity.
Additionally, a quorum of 50+ members is now required to commence any session.
The revised rules also granted the Speaker opportunity to participate in debate but stipulate that the Speaker may only take part after temporarily vacating the chair to the Deputy Speaker.
The adoption of the revised rules is expected to improve attendance rate, discipline, and the overall quality of debate in the ECOWAS Parliament.