By Hassan Osman Kargbo
Hon. Abdul Kargbo, Leader of the Opposition in the Sierra Leone Parliament, is currently in Abuja, Nigeria, where he is participating in the opening of the First Ordinary Session of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Parliament for 2025. The high-level session brings together lawmakers from across the West African sub-region to engage in deliberations on the political, security, and economic challenges facing ECOWAS member states.
The session, taking place at the ECOWAS Parliament headquarters, serves as a crucial platform for regional dialogue, policy harmonization, and the strengthening of democratic institutions. Hon. Kargbo’s presence at the event reinforces Sierra Leone’s ongoing commitment to regional cooperation, and its active role in shaping the ECOWAS agenda.
Speaking ahead of the session’s formal opening, Hon. Kargbo highlighted the importance of inter-parliamentary collaboration in addressing the shared concerns of West African nations. “This session provides an opportunity for member states to reaffirm their dedication to peace, stability, and economic growth in our region,” he said. “Sierra Leone stands with our neighbours in advancing the principles of good governance, democratic accountability, and regional integration.”
The 2025 First Ordinary Session comes at a critical time for the West African bloc, which continues to confront a range of complex issues, including military takeovers in some member states, rising insecurity due to terrorism and organized crime, and economic instability caused by global shocks and climate-related disruptions.
As Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Kargbo’s participation adds a valuable perspective to Sierra Leone’s representation, promoting a bipartisan approach to regional diplomacy and policy engagement. His involvement reflects the country’s political maturity and its respect for the diverse voices that contribute to national and regional governance.
During the session, members of the ECOWAS Parliament are expected to review reports from various standing committees, assess progress on integration and development programs, and propose legislative recommendations aimed at reinforcing democratic governance and human rights across the region. Key items on the agenda also include trade facilitation, youth empowerment, conflict resolution mechanisms, and health system resilience.
Hon. Kargbo is also scheduled to engage in bilateral meetings with fellow parliamentarians and regional officials to discuss matters of mutual interest, including security cooperation, migration policies, and sustainable development initiatives. His engagement is expected to underscore Sierra Leone’s desire to deepen collaboration with neighboring states on critical transnational issues.
The ECOWAS Parliament, also known as the Community Parliament, serves as a consultative and advisory body within the ECOWAS structure. It plays a vital role in bringing the voices of West African citizens into the regional decision-making process and promoting unity among member states.
Hon. Kargbo’s attendance at the session not only demonstrates Sierra Leone’s strong ties to ECOWAS institutions but also highlights the country’s continued advocacy for democracy, peace, and prosperity throughout West Africa.
