The President of the Republic of Ghana and Chairman of ECOWAS, John Dramani Mahama, has admonished the newly sworn-in judges of the ECOWAS Community Court to discharge their duties with fairness and integrity.
According to the President, by maintaining such high standards, the work of the court will help in enhancing regional integration whilst promoting rule of law.
“Your work should enhance peace, ensure security and stability in our sub-region and also promote the development of our member states,” President Mahama said.
President Mahama made the comment when he swore in 7 justices to the ECOWAS Community court at the flagstaff house today.
He urged them to treat cases with fairness and with respect to litigants.
“You must apply the law in a judicious manner with a demonstration of due respect to litigants and everyone who comes before you.” President Mahama added.
President Mahama stated “In the fair and judicious execution of your duties, the court will achieve its objective of contributing to the attainment of sub-regional integration.”
President Mahama further advised the judges to collaborate closely with national courts of member states to enhance the viability of their judgments.
On his part, the president of the ECOWAS Commission, Kadre Desire Ouedraogo, congratulated the judges and urged them to work to enhance the efficiency of the ECOWAS court.
The 44th summit of regional leaders held in Yamoussoukro last February, approved the judges’ appointments following the report of the regional Judicial Council charged with the recruitment of the judges of the Community Court.
They replace their colleagues from member states, whose tenures have expired.
The original mandate of the court, which became operational in 2001, covers the interpretation and application of community texts and human rights.
It also plays the role of arbitration and serves as a public service court for the community, on matters between the community and its staff.
They are Mr. Jerome Traore (Burkina Faso), Maria Do Cue Montero Silva (Guinea Bissau), Yaya Boiro (Guinea), Micah Wilkins Wright (Liberia), Hameye Foune Mahlmadane (Mali), Friday Chijioke Nwoke (Nigeria), and Alioune Sall (Senegal).
By: Richard Mensah/citifmonline.com/Ghana