By Michaella Faith Wright
The 2024 International Conference of the ECOWAS Court of Justice convened in Freetown, Republic of Sierra Leone, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to enhance the role, relevance, and effectiveness of the court. With the overarching theme, “Enhancing the Role, Relevance, and Effectiveness of the ECOWAS Court of Justice through the Strengthening of Synergies Between the Court and National Stakeholders,” the conference provided a platform for extensive deliberations and strategic engagements aimed at fostering closer collaboration between the court and national entities across the ECOWAS region.
The event commenced with an opening statement by Hon. Justice N.C. Browne, Acting Chief Justice of the Republic of Sierra Leone, who underscored the fundamental importance of cooperation between the ECOWAS Court of Justice and national stakeholders in advancing justice, protecting human rights, and upholding the rule of law within the region. Justice Browne’s remarks set the tone for the subsequent discussions, emphasizing the imperative of collective action in addressing complex legal challenges that transcend national borders.
In his welcome address, President of the ECOWAS Court of Justice, Hon. Justice Edward Amoako Asante, extended warm greetings to all participants and expressed his appreciation for the robust turnout at the conference. Justice Asante highlighted the critical role of the court as a bastion of justice and a beacon of hope for millions of citizens across the ECOWAS member states. He emphasized the need for enhanced collaboration between the court and national stakeholders to effectively address emerging legal issues and deliver equitable outcomes for all.
The Sierra Leone Bar Association was represented by its President, Michela Swallow, who delivered a compelling statement underscoring the importance of strengthening synergies between the ECOWAS Court of Justice and national legal bodies. Swallow emphasized the pivotal role of legal professionals in advocating for justice, upholding the rule of law, and safeguarding the rights of individuals within their respective jurisdictions. She called for increased cooperation and dialogue between the court and national bar associations to ensure greater access to justice and legal recourse for all citizens.
Dr. Omar Allieu Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, reiterated the Commission’s unwavering commitment to supporting the ECOWAS Court of Justice in fulfilling its mandate and advancing regional integration efforts. Dr. Touray emphasized the complementary nature of the ECOWAS institutions and underscored the need for synergy and collaboration to address common challenges and achieve shared objectives. He reaffirmed the Commission’s readiness to collaborate with the court and other stakeholders in implementing innovative legal frameworks and mechanisms to promote peace, stability, and development across the ECOWAS region.
Hon. Mohamed Lamin Tarawally, Attorney General and Minister of Justice of the Republic of Sierra Leone, delivered a comprehensive statement outlining the government’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with the ECOWAS Court of Justice. Minister Tarawally emphasized the importance of aligning national legal frameworks with regional standards and mechanisms to facilitate seamless adjudication of cross-border disputes and ensure effective enforcement of the court’s decisions. He pledged the government’s full support for initiatives aimed at enhancing the court’s capacity and effectiveness in addressing transnational legal challenges.
Timothy Kabba, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Republic of Sierra Leone, emphasized the crucial role of diplomatic engagement in promoting the objectives of the ECOWAS Court of Justice and fostering regional cooperation. Minister Kabba reiterated Sierra Leone’s commitment to upholding the principles of international law, respect for human rights, and the peaceful resolution of disputes. He underscored the importance of diplomatic dialogue and multilateral cooperation in strengthening the rule of law and advancing common interests across the ECOWAS community.
The keynote address was delivered by Guest Speaker Professor Ernest Kofi Abotsi, a distinguished legal scholar and expert in international law. Professor Abotsi’s address provided valuable insights into the theme of the conference, offering strategic recommendations to enhance the effectiveness of the ECOWAS Court of Justice through closer collaboration with national stakeholders. He emphasized the importance of building trust, fostering mutual understanding, and leveraging synergies to overcome institutional challenges and drive positive change within the ECOWAS legal framework.
The conference culminated in the official opening ceremony, presided over by H.E. Julius Maada Bio, President of the Republic of Sierra Leone. President Bio reiterated his government’s unwavering support for the ECOWAS Court of Justice and emphasized the critical role of the court in promoting regional integration, upholding the rule of law, and safeguarding the rights of all citizens. He commended the efforts of all participants in advancing the objectives of the conference and expressed confidence in the collective ability to overcome shared challenges and realize the aspirations of the ECOWAS community.
In conclusion, the 2024 International Conference of the ECOWAS Court of Justice in Sierra Leone served as a pivotal platform for fostering dialogue, collaboration, and strategic partnerships aimed at strengthening the court’s role and relevance in the ever-evolving landscape of regional justice and legal cooperation.
Copyright –Published in print in Expo Times Newspaper on Wednesday, May 15TH, 2024 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
