ADDIS ABABA-The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) has announced the completion of preparations for the implementation of five Transitional Justice (TJ) policy proclamations. These proclamations aim to ensure the rule of law and foster lasting peace and stability within Ethiopia.
The Ethiopian government has initiated a comprehensive TJ process to address past conflicts, provide redress for serious human rights violations, and heal the wounds of the past. This process is crucial for achieving enduring peace and reconciliation within society. The Government of Ethiopia has embarked on this significant national initiative with the primary goals of ensuring justice, accountability, reconciliation, and compensation for victims across the country.
Speaking to the Ethiopian Press Agency (EPA), Awel Sultan, Head of the Transitional Justice Institutions and Coordinating Leadership Office at the Ministry, stated that various efforts have been made to address human rights violations, internal conflicts, and instances of false discord and disobedience that have occurred in recent years. The establishment of TJ mechanisms is a key component of the government’s commitment to addressing these issues at the grassroots level.
The MoJ has been entrusted with overseeing the implementation of this TJ process, which aims to address the serious human rights violations that have contributed to instability and disorder in recent years. The Ministry is currently preparing five proclamations to guide this critical endeavor.
The first step in this implementation process involves organizing a team of qualified professionals. The MoJ is actively engaged in various activities, including budgeting and securing the necessary resources to support this critical work. The subsequent phase will focus on creating a robust legal framework to establish independent institutions that will facilitate the effective implementation of the TJ process.
To spearhead this crucial work, the MoJ has established the position of Special Attorney General Press Secretary. This vital role will be responsible for investigating serious human rights violations, overseeing cases, prosecuting charges, ensuring accountability, making informed decisions, and handling all related matters.
Furthermore, a Truth and Reconciliation Commission will be established. This independent body will be tasked with gathering comprehensive information on past human rights violations, thoroughly investigating their scope and impact, and publicly announcing its findings.
Recent years have witnessed numerous human rights violations, creating significant social divisions. The primary objective of this Transitional Justice (TJ) initiative is to foster social harmony and reconciliation. To ensure the success of this endeavor, the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) has sought input from both local and international experts in developing the five legal frameworks.
The MoJ is actively working to enhance the meaningful involvement of vulnerable communities in the TJ process while developing these frameworks. Recognizing the crucial importance of collaboration, the MoJ is diligently coordinating efforts with all stakeholders to ensure the initiative’s success.
BY HAILE DEMEKE
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD THURSDAY 2 JANUARY 2025
