ECOWAS Parliament adopts amended rules of procedure

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The Parliament of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) adopted its amended rules of procedure on Wednesday, 21 May, 2025, in Abuja, Nigeria, during the first ordinary session of the year.

The amended rules modify several provisions to better regulate the conduct of parliamentarians during sessions, establish working procedures, and clarify disciplinary measures and sanctions.

Among the notable changes, members who miss one-third of an ordinary session without justification will now face disciplinary action. The new rules also promote linguistic and gender balance in committee appointments, prohibit derogatory remarks against fellow heads of state, and require a quorum of at least 50 members for any deliberations.

Additionally, the amended rules stipulate that the Speaker of Parliament may only participate in debates after temporarily relinquishing the chair to a deputy speaker.

The adoption of the amended rules of procedure is expected to enhance attendance, discipline, and the overall quality of debates within the ECOWAS Parliament.