ADDIS ABABA – The House of Peoples’ Representatives approved yesterday Hate Speech and Disinformation Prevention and Suppression bill with a large majority voting in favor.
The law meant to safeguard the spread of hate speech and false information was opposed by 23 members while two others abstained.
House’s Legal, Justice and Democracy Affairs Standing Committee indicated that the main aim of the proclamation is to contain damaging impacts of hate speech and disinformation.
The law would also play a profound role in reducing conflicts and tensions resulted from the ill acts, he said.
Standing Committee’s Acting Chairperson, Abebe Gedebo said that the law does not stand in contradiction to the freedom of expression which is already protected in Art. 29 of the Constitution.
Meanwhile, MPs approved six other proclamations and agreements including the excise tax bill. And also, the house referred two proclamations to the respective standing committees for further scrutiny..
The Ethiopian Herald February 14/2020
BY ABDUREZAK MOHAMMED
