In a historic move, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Parliament has welcomed its first female Speaker, Memounatou Ibrahima, marking a significant milestone in the region’s political landscape.
Ibrahima’s appointment came during the 2024 Second Extraordinary Session of the Sixth Legislature held in Kano, North West Nigeria.
The decision to elect Ibrahima follows the procedural rotation of the speakership, as outlined in the Supplementary Act on Enhancement of Power.
Prior to Ibrahima’s appointment, Sidie Mohamed Tunis, hailing from Sierra Leone, served as the Speaker of the Fifth Legislature.
Ibrahima, a Togolese national, brings with her a wealth of experience, having previously served as the third Deputy Speaker during the fifth Legislature of the ECOWAS Parliament, a position she held since 2021.
Ibrahima’s ascendancy to the speakership comes at a crucial juncture, with the ECOWAS Parliament navigating various regional challenges and opportunities.
Notably, her election underscores the organization’s commitment to gender inclusivity and empowerment within its leadership ranks.
The transition of leadership also saw Senator Barau Jubrin of Nigeria, who previously held the position of First Deputy Speaker, temporarily assuming the role of Speaker.
This interim measure was taken to prevent any void in leadership within the Community Parliament during the transition period.
However, the inauguration of the Sixth Legislature on April 4th, 2024, revealed a notable absence, as the delegation from the Republic of Togo was unable to participate due to the lack of an election process within the country.
This absence highlights the importance of adherence to electoral procedures in ensuring the representation of member states within the ECOWAS Parliament.
