Speaker Thomas Meets Liberian Counterpart to Discuss Creation of Mano River Union Parliament
Sia Lucy Kannah The Speaker of Liberia’s House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Richard Nagbe Koon, led a legislative delegation to meet with Sierra Leone’s Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas, on Wednesday to discuss the establishment of a Mano River Union (MRU) Legislative Parliamentary Body.
The meeting focused on enhancing democratic governance, peace, security, and cross-border trade among MRU member states. Speaker Koon emphasized that the proposed body would strengthen regional cooperation, combat drug trafficking and terrorism, and address border-related challenges.
“As representatives of the people, we must work together to ensure stability and economic growth,” Koon stated. He urged Speaker Thomas to collaborate in developing a framework for the MRU Parliamentary Body’s official launch.
Speaker Thomas welcomed the initiative, stressing Africa’s historical and cultural unity. He lamented the impact of colonial borders, noting the shared heritage between Liberia and Sierra Leone, including ethnic groups like the Mendes and Mandigos.
“Africa was never meant to be divided. We are one people,” Thomas said. He pledged full support for the MRU Legislative Body and called for swift action to engage other MRU member states.
Both speakers expressed optimism that the proposed body would foster regional unity and economic integration. The MRU currently includes Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea, and Côte d’Ivoire.