The ECOWAS Parliament has adopted new Rules of Procedure aimed at reinforcing parliamentary transparency, accountability, and effective governance. The revised rules, adopted during the First Ordinary Session in Abuja, prohibit members from making derogatory remarks about fellow members and West African Heads of State.
The new rules also stipulate sanctions for members who miss one-third of an ordinary session without justification, suspension of sitting allowances, and require gender and language balance in committee appointments. A dress code has been formalized to reflect the parliament’s dignity, and a quorum of 50+ members is required to commence a session.
The Speaker is also expected to vacate the chair to a Deputy Speaker when participating in debates to preserve impartiality. The adoption of the revised rules is expected to enhance attendance, discipline, and the overall quality of debate in the ECOWAS Parliament.