Justice Edward Asante, the President of the ECOWAS Court of Justice, during the 16th administrative and budget retreat stated concerns about the high operational costs that are straining the court’s budget.
Justice Asante revealed that a staggering 80% of the court’s budget is currently allocated to administrative and operational expenses.
This allocation leaves minimal funds available for other critical activities. He called for careful and strategic financial planning to ensure the court can continue fulfilling its mandate effectively.
Justice Asante reassured attendees of the court’s commitment to its responsibilities. “We still have to do our programmes to let people know that the Court is also performing its function,” he stated. He called for collective wisdom from all participants to formulate a viable budget that would be well-received by the Administration and Finance Committee and the Council of Ministers.
The retreat, held annually, serves as a platform for thoughtful discussions, open dialogues, and constructive debates aimed at generating innovative solutions to the court’s financial challenges.
Dr. William Towah, the Director of Administration and Finance, expressed optimism about the retreat’s potential to renew the court’s sense of purpose and generate effective strategies for the future.
Dr. Towah commended the dedication of the court’s members, noting their efforts have earned respect and trust from stakeholders. However, he also acknowledged the persistent challenges that require continuous improvement. “By embracing these challenges, we can further strengthen our foundation and ensure that the Court remains a beacon of justice and fairness,” Dr. Towah affirmed.
The retreat was attended by the Vice President, judges, directors, and relevant staff of the court, all contributing to the discussions aimed at securing a sustainable financial future for the ECOWAS Court of Justice.
