The ECOWAS Parliament has adopted a revised set of Rules of Procedure aimed at fostering transparency, discipline, and inclusivity in the operations of the regional legislative body. The new rules, adopted during the First Ordinary Session of the Parliament held on Thursday in Abuja, introduce wide-ranging reforms designed to improve parliamentary conduct and efficiency.

Presenting the report, Fourth Deputy Speaker and Chair of the Ad-Hoc Committee on the review, MP Billay Tunkara, said the amendments were driven by the need to reinforce accountability and effective governance within the Parliament.

Among the key highlights of the new rules is a ban on derogatory remarks against fellow parliamentarians and West African Heads of State. The rules also introduce sanctions for lawmakers who miss one-third of an ordinary session without valid justification, including the suspension of their sitting allowances.

To promote fairness and inclusivity, the revised procedures mandate gender and language balance in committee appointments, introduce a formal dress code to uphold the dignity of the Parliament, and establish a quorum requirement of 50 or more members for sessions to commence.

In a bid to maintain neutrality, the rules specify that the Speaker must vacate their chair before participating in any debate, with a Deputy Speaker presiding during such instances.

“The adoption of the revised rules is expected to enhance attendance, discipline, and the overall quality of debate in the ECOWAS Parliament,” the report noted.

The reforms come during the Parliament’s 2025 First Ordinary Session, which began on Tuesday and runs through May 31. This session also kicks off preparations for the ECOWAS Parliament’s 25th anniversary celebration scheduled for November, a milestone that underscores the institution’s role in deepening regional integration and cooperation among West African nations.

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