ECOWAS Court of Justice Elects New Leadership.
By Caroline Ameh
The ECOWAS Court of Justice (CCJ) has elected Justice Ricardo Gonçalves from Cape Verde as its new President, alongside Justice Sengu Koroma from Sierra Leone as Vice President. Both leaders will serve a non-renewable four-year term.
The election took place during a session attended by the court’s college of five judges, presided over by Guinea-Bissau’s President Umaro Sissoco Embaló, the former chair of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government.
Justice Gonçalves succeeds Justice Edward Asante of Ghana, who served as president for six years. Justice Koroma replaces Ivory Coast’s Gberi-bè Ouattara as Vice President.
Justice Asante has been recommended for a position on Ghana’s Supreme Court but will remain a judge of the CCJ until his extended tenure ends in 2026. During his time as president, Justice Asante made significant strides in modernizing the court, particularly in areas of jurisprudence, case management, and infrastructure. One of his notable achievements was the relocation of the court to a new complex in Abuja’s Gudu District in 2023, alleviating the overcrowding issues faced at its former location.
Justice Asante also introduced an electronic case management system, facilitating virtual hearings and reducing financial constraints for applicants across ECOWAS member states. Reflecting on his tenure, Justice Asante described his leadership as a “worthwhile experience,” providing him with deeper insights into the ECOWAS integration process, with a strong focus on human rights, accountability, and transparency.
In his inaugural speech, Justice Gonçalves laid out his vision for the court, with a focus on responsibility and dialogue. He emphasized the importance of maintaining the court’s independence, efficiency, and accessibility. He also stressed the need for continued dialogue with ECOWAS institutions, member states, and civil society, while ensuring prudent management of ECOWAS resources.
