MONROVIA, LIBERIA- Member states of the Mano River Union have endorsed a framework document to establish the MRU parliamentary body in the region.

The goal is to advance common legislation, strengthen regional integration, peace and security, social and economic development, and cooperation among others.

At the signing ceremony in Congo Town Sunday, July 20, 2025, House Speaker Richard Koon said, “The endorsement of the framework is the reaffirmation of the collective responsibility to build a region that is more united, resilient, and responsive to the needs of the people”.

Speaker Koon said the parliamentary body will serve as a critical institution bridge in harmonizing shared legislations to address cross-border challenges confronting the region.

He said, “The body stands ready to deepen democratic governance through legislative action, tackle illegal trade, address climate change, and mainstream gender”.

The MRU parliamentary body consists of Guinea, Ivory Coast, Sierra Leone, and Liberia.

Meanwhile, the Speaker of the parliament of Sierra Leone, Segepoh Thomas, described the launch of the MRU parliamentary body as the dawn of a new day in harmonizing legislative assembly.

Speaker Thomas said a regional parliament offers a structured and accountable platform to address challenges confronting citizens in the MRU basin.

He said the time is critical for countries in the region to embrace the framework that fosters collaboration, coherence, and common legislative actions.

Speaker Thomas said the body will strengthen accountability, facilitate structured dialogue, and present a united front in a global and continental platform.