MRU Parliament Established

In a historic and unprecedented move to strengthen regional cooperation and legislative unity, the Speakers and Presidents of the National Legislatures of the Republic of Liberia, the Republic of Guinea, the Republic of Sierra Leone, and the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire have convened and formally announced the establishment of the Mano River Union Parliament on Sunday, July 20, 2025. This landmark event marks a significant milestone in the shared commitment of these four West African nations to deepen political, social, and economic integration within the Mano River Union (MRU) framework. The MRU Parliament is envisioned as a critical institution to enhance democratic governance, promote peace and security, and foster sustainable development across the sub-region. The Joint Communiqué was signed by the following distinguished leaders, each bringing their unique vision and dedication to the cause of regional unity: Rtd. Hon. Richard Nagbe Koon, Speaker of the House of Representatives, 55th Legislature, Republic of Liberia; Rtd. Hon. Claude Kory Kondiano, Acting President, National Transitional Assembly, Republic of Guinea; Rtd. Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas, Speaker of Parliament, Republic of Sierra Leone; Rtd. Hon. Adama Bictogo, President, National Assembly, Republic of Côte d’Ivoire. In their joint statement, the leaders expressed that the creation of the Mano River Union Parliament is a product of a shared vision to promote regional solidarity, democratic oversight, and enhanced legislative cooperation to address common challenges faced by their peoples. “Under the spirit of unity and regional cooperation, we hereby establish the Mano River Union Parliament to serve as a platform for dialogue, policy harmonization, and collaborative action,” the communiqué states. The new parliamentary institution will provide a forum for legislators from the four countries to deliberate on issues of mutual interest including cross-border security, trade facilitation, environmental protection, human rights, and the advancement of peacebuilding efforts. By institutionalizing regular parliamentary engagement, the MRU Parliament seeks to complement the work of the existing Executive Secretariat and other MRU bodies to accelerate regional integration. Furthermore, the establishment of this Parliament underscores the leaders’ commitment to democratic principles and the empowerment of legislative bodies as key pillars of governance. The MRU Parliament is expected to strengthen accountability, transparency, and citizen participation across the member states. The leaders affirmed that this step forward will reinforce the Mano River Union’s relevance on the continental and international stage, positioning it as a model of regional cooperation in West Africa. The official signatures of the Speakers and Presidents symbolize their solidarity and hope for a peaceful, prosperous, and united Mano River region: This communiqué heralds a new chapter in the MRU’s history and affirms the shared resolve of its members to pursue unity, development, and peace through strengthened parliamentary collaboration.