Commissioner Francess Piagie Alghali Pledges to Strengthen Conflict Prevention and Regional Stability
By Marian Magdalene Bangura
Strategic Communication Unit – Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MoICE)
Sierra Leone’s newly appointed ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, Mrs. Francess Piagie Alghali has described her appointment as a significant milestone for both Sierra Leone and the West African sub-region, pledging to strengthen preventive diplomacy, conflict prevention and regional peace.
Speaking during the Government’s Weekly Press Conference hosted by the Minister of Information and Civic Education, Hon. Chernor Bah, at the Miatta Conference Centre in Freetown, Mrs. Alghali explained that Sierra Leone secured the prestigious portfolio through a competitive, merit-based selection process involving all ECOWAS Member States.
She disclosed that following the completion of the previous commissioner’s tenure, Member States were invited to indicate their preferred commissioner portfolios. Sierra Leone opted for the Political Affairs, Peace, and Security portfolio, citing its growing international reputation in peacebuilding, democratic governance, and conflict resolution.
Mrs. Alghali explained that the process required the government to nominate qualified candidates by submitting their curriculum vitae for extensive due diligence and verification of professional credentials. Shortlisted candidates subsequently appeared before a panel of ministers for interviews before the final appointment was made.
“I am proud that Sierra Leone successfully went through the process and secured this important position. It reflects the confidence ECOWAS has in our country’s contribution to peace, security, and regional cooperation,” she said.
According to the Commissioner-designate, Sierra Leone’s successful bid was strengthened by the country’s recent service on the United Nations Security Council and its active role in advancing regional peace and democratic governance under the leadership of President Dr. Julius Maada Bio.
She described her appointment as both a personal achievement and a national honour, acknowledging the years of dedication, public service, and commitment that culminated in her selection.
“For me, as a woman and as a Sierra Leonean, this appointment means a great deal. It demonstrates that hard work, dedication, and sacrifice are recognised, and I am deeply honoured to serve,” she stated.
Responding to questions about the effectiveness of ECOWAS, Mrs. Alghali defended the regional organisation’s record, highlighting its contributions to promoting constitutional governance, supporting democratic transitions, and preserving regional peace.
She pointed to ECOWAS’ interventions in countries including The Gambia, Guinea, and Benin as examples of the organisation’s continued commitment to maintaining stability and constitutional order across West Africa.
Looking ahead to officially assuming office on 1 September 2026, Mrs. Alghali said her foremost priority would be to strengthen preventive diplomacy by ensuring that ECOWAS acts before political tensions escalate into violent conflicts.
“My vision is for ECOWAS to become even more proactive than reactive. We should intervene before conflicts emerge, prevent instability before sanctions become necessary, and continue strengthening peace and security throughout the region,” she said.
She expressed confidence that her tenure would deepen Sierra Leone’s contribution to regional peacebuilding while reinforcing ECOWAS as a leading institution for peace, security, democracy and regional integration.
Mrs. Alghali’s appointment represents another significant milestone for Sierra Leone’s growing diplomatic engagement within the ECOWAS Commission and reflects the country’s continued commitment to promoting peace, democratic governance, and sustainable development across West Africa.
