By Vaye Lepolu
MONROVIA, Liberia – Bong County Electoral District #6 Representative and ECOWAS Parliament Member, Hon. Moima Dabah Briggs-Mensah,has called on regional leaders and stakeholders to take proactive steps to address growing political tensions in Senegal before they escalate into a wider crisis.
In a statement issued recently, Rep. Briggs-Mensah expressed concern over what she described as increasing uncertainty in Senegal and the apparent lack of visible mediation efforts by regional institutions. She stressed that ECOWAS must prioritize preventive diplomacy and early engagement to preserve peace and stability in the West African nation.
“As I follow developments each day, I am concerned by the growing tension and uncertainty unfolding in Senegal,” she said. “We must not wait until a crisis spirals out of control before we begin to speak out or take meaningful action.”
The Liberian lawmaker emphasized that recent experiences across the ECOWAS region have demonstrated the importance of early intervention in preventing political instability and violence. According to her, it is more effective to address emerging concerns through dialogue and diplomacy than to respond after conflict has erupted.
Rep. Briggs-Mensah warned that the region cannot afford to witness another member state descend into prolonged instability, division, or political unrest. She noted that ECOWAS has both a responsibility and a moral obligation to facilitate constructive engagement among stakeholders and support peaceful solutions before tensions become unmanageable.
The Bong County representative also highlighted the humanitarian consequences of political crises, noting that women, children, and other vulnerable populations often bear the greatest burden during periods of unrest.
“History has repeatedly shown that when political crises erupt, women and children suffer the most. Their welfare, security, and future must remain at the center of our decisions and actions,” she stated.
She called on ECOWAS leaders, the ECOWAS Parliament, the ECOWAS Female Parliamentarians Association (ECOFEPA), civil society organizations, and all stakeholders committed to regional peace and stability to closely monitor developments in Senegal and work toward promoting dialogue, national cohesion, and democratic stability.
Rep. Briggs-Mensah concluded by urging leaders across the region to act decisively and responsibly to prevent a deterioration of the situation, while offering prayers for the people of Senegal.
“The people of Senegal remain in my prayers. May God grant wisdom to our leaders and guide them to place the interests of ordinary citizens above personal and political interests. May peace, justice, unity, and stability prevail in Senegal and throughout the ECOWAS region,” she said.
Hon. Moima Dabah Briggs-Mensah is a second-term Independent Representative of Electoral District #6, Bong County, serves in Liberia’s 55th Legislature, chairs the House Committee on Gender Equity, Child Development and Social Services, and is a member of the ECOWAS Parliament.
