By Odimmegwa Johnpeter, Abuja
The President of the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice, Edward Asante, has reassured the new Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, Memounatou Ibrahima of the willingness of the community court to partner with the regional legislature to achieve the stated goals of the region.
Asante gave this assurance when the Speaker paid him a courtesy visit on Friday at the corporate headquarters of the court in Abuja, the Nigerian capital.
In his address, President Asante stressed the enduring partnership between the Court and the Parliament, saying, “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.”
President Asante highlighted 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. He also mentioned ongoing discussions 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, Memounatu, who is the first female Speaker of the Parliament, expressed her gratitude and reaffirmed the Parliament’s commitment to this collaborative spirit.
She said, “It is an honour 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, adding 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 Honourable Speaker was accompanied by her 4th Deputy Speaker, Hon. Tunkara Billay, Secretary General of the ECOWAS Parliament, Bertin Some and some support staff of the Parliament.
