By Gloria Ikibah
President of the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice, Justice Edward Asante, has reiterated the commitment of the community court to partner with the parliament to achieve set goals of the region.
Justice Asante stated this when he received a delegation of the ECOWAS Parliament led by Speaker Memounatou Ibrahima on Friday in Abuja.
In his address, President Asante acknowledged the enduring partnership between the Community Court and Parliament,.
“We are delighted to receive the new Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament. This visit, coming right after her investiture, symbolizes the solidarity and mutual respect that have characterized our institutions over the past five years. We have consistently supported each other’s programs and initiatives, and today’s visit reinforces our commitment to continue this cooperation”,
He emphasised the importance of continued collaboration, particularly in the exchange of resources and expertise, such as interpreters and translators, to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of both institutions.
Asante further stated that the ongoing discussions was aimed at bolstering the independence of the ECOWAS Parliament through direct elections of its members, which he said the court supports wholeheartedly.
“We are ready to assist and support the Parliament in achieving this goal, as a strong and independent Parliament is essential for the enactment of robust laws that benefit our community and foster deeper integration,” he added.
In her response, Speaker Ibrahima, reaffirmed the Parliament’s commitment to this collaborative spirit.
She said: “It is an honor and a pleasure to be here. The Parliament and the Court of Justice have a shared mission to promote rights within our community, and we intend to continue this important work. We are confident of your support, particularly in capacity building for the Parliament and in addressing the challenge of direct elections for ECOWAS deputies”.
Both leaders expressed optimism for the future of ECOWAS, and added that their respective institutions have vital roles to play in fostering unity, promoting justice, and ensuring the prosperity of the West African region.
Also present at the meeting were the Vice President of the Court, Justice Gberi-bè Ouattara, Justice Sengu Mohamed Koroma, and the Chief Registrar of the Court, Dr. Yaouza Ouro-Sama.
The Speaker was accompanied by the 4th Deputy Speaker, Hon. Tunkara Billay, Secretary General of the ECOWAS Parliament, Bertin Some and some management staff of the Parliament.