The President of the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice, Honourable Justice Edward Amoako Asante, set the tone for the four-day international conference by underlining the Court’s reliance on national courts for enforcing its judgments. Addressing attendees, he clarified that the Court does not hold an appellate role over national courts and emphasized its collaborative stance rather than competition.

Justice Asante reaffirmed the Court’s pivotal role as the primary legal entity within the ECOWAS Community. He stressed its duty to ensure adherence to law and justice while interpreting and applying Treaties, Protocols, and Conventions of the Institution. Gratitude was expressed to President Julius Maada Bio and the people of Sierra Leone for hosting the conference, highlighting the collaborative efforts with judicial authorities from Member States.

Support for the Court’s significance echoed throughout the conference. Hon. Billay Tunkara, representing the ECOWAS Parliament, emphasized its role as a beacon of hope for justice seekers and a guardian of democracy. Sierra Leone’s Attorney General, Mohamed Lamin Tarawalley, underscored its contribution to protecting citizens’ rights, regional integration, and economic development.

Mr. Timothy Kabba, Sierra Leone’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, highlighted the critical role of justice in addressing regional challenges such as terrorism and unconstitutional takeovers. Acting Chief Justice Nicholas C. Browne-Marke stressed the importance of executing Court judgments and proposed the establishment of an appellate structure to bolster the Court’s effectiveness.

In his opening remarks, President Julius Maada Bio commended ECOWAS for selecting Sierra Leone as the conference venue, reaffirming the nation’s dedication to regional cooperation and integration. He pledged ongoing support for ECOWAS’s objectives and aspirations.

The conference, running until Thursday, May 16th, seeks to foster cooperation, advance justice, and uphold the rule of law within the ECOWAS region.