By Grace Q. Bryant
A high-level delegation from the Bureau of the Organization of African, Caribbean, and Pacific States (OACPS), led by Sierra Leonean MP Matthew Sahr Nyuma, has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing parliamentary cooperation with Liberia’s House of Representatives.
The visit focused on strengthening legislative collaboration, deepening regional partnerships, and promoting policies that drive sustainable development.
Nyuma, who serves as the Leader of Government Business in Sierra Leone’s Parliament, addressed Liberian lawmakers during a regular session, emphasizing the need for greater unity among African nations.
He highlighted the deep historical, cultural, and economic ties between Liberia and its neighbors, stressing that enhanced parliamentary cooperation is vital for regional progress.
During his remarks, Nyuma underscored the crucial role of parliaments in enacting laws that support governance, economic growth, and social transformation.
He urged Liberia’s lawmakers to actively engage in the OACPS framework to ensure their country’s interests are well represented in international agreements.
“We need proper integration, discussion, and collaboration. Transformation cannot happen without strong legislation. Our nations are connected by history, geography, and shared challenges. We must work together to achieve sustainable development,” he stated.
He also explained that the OACPS has evolved under the Samoa Agreement, which provides African, Caribbean, and Pacific nations with a more structured platform to engage with the European Union.
He encouraged Liberian lawmakers to take a more active role in shaping policies within this framework.
The delegation expressed solidarity with Liberia’s House of Representatives regarding its temporary relocation due to structural issues at the Capitol Building.
Nyuma shared a similar experience from Sierra Leone, where their parliament had to relocate temporarily due to infrastructure concerns.
“It is never easy to move a parliament from one location to another, but governance must continue. We understand the challenges, but the work of the legislature must remain uninterrupted. We stand with you during this transition,” he said
He emphasized that despite logistical challenges, lawmakers must remain committed to their primary duty of representing their constituents and making decisions that promote national stability and development.
Beyond legislative collaboration, the delegation stressed the importance of strengthening bilateral and regional partnerships between Liberia and its neighbors.
Nyuma highlighted the deep historical and cultural connections between Liberia and Sierra Leone, urging both nations to leverage these ties for greater cooperation.
“Our nations are bound by culture, trade, and shared struggles. We cannot afford to work in isolation. If we fail to unite and advance together, we risk being left behind while the rest of the world progresses,” he said.
Key areas of discussion included education reform, gender equality, youth empowerment, and economic policies that benefit both Liberia and the broader OACPS community. Nyuma also urged lawmakers to advocate for gender parity and youth development, emphasizing their importance within the OACPS agenda.
The Majority bloc Speaker Richard Nagbe Koon welcomed the delegation and reaffirmed Liberia’s commitment to regional collaboration.
He assured Nyuma that Liberia would take a more active role in OACPS initiatives.
“We assure you that Liberia’s engagement will be stronger, and we will fulfill our obligations to foster greater cooperation,” Koon stated.
He also introduced key lawmakers in attendance, highlighting their roles in maintaining legislative continuity despite the challenges of relocating parliamentary activities.
The visit marked a continued effort by the OACPS to foster inter-parliamentary collaboration and reinforce the role of legislative bodies in shaping policies that drive sustainable development. Discussions underscored the importance of legislative diplomacy in addressing shared challenges, strengthening governance, and enhancing economic growth across member nations.
