Ethiopia has been applying a federal system of government since more than two decades ago. Various sources indicate that if properly applied, federalism narrows the possibility of seizing power through illegal means like the coup that was staged but foiled last week in Amhara State.
So is it possible to conclude that Ethiopia’s federalism has reached a level of maturity where it can thwart off any attempts to seize power through force?
Chairman of Foreign Relations and Peace Affairs Standing Committee at House of Peoples’ Representatives, Honorable Tesfaye Daba told The Ethiopian Herald that due to the nature and structure of the system, in federal system of government, coup d’état can never be successful and would never be a means for power.
Especially in Ethiopia, since the country built “strong” and constitutional federal system, it is impossible to get power at federal or regional levels without the consent and recognition of the people.
Tesfaye stated that there are nine “strong” governments, two city administrations and the federal government with their power jurisdictions. Hence, any attempt to secure power illegally is impossible.
Not only at the federal level, if any such attempt happens in states, the federal government has a constitutional power to intervene to keep peace and security of the people, hence it is not possible to take power through coup d’état in current federalist Ethiopia.
Not only that, Ethiopia has also built strong and professional army working only for the constitution, the people and its conscience. He added that the failed coup bid in Amhara state and the peoples stand to the rule of law indicates that the only means to hold power in Ethiopia is through election.
Assistant Professor of Political Science at Dire Dawa University Faji Challa said that as Ethiopia is home to diverse peoples, it is better to use decentralized power system to better serve peoples’ interest. According to Faji, it is impossible to gain power in the absence of people recognition and legitimacy; rather it is likely to cause public outrage.
The constitution actually provides that collaborative forces can enter into the states when the threat is beyond their capacity. But it does not mean that the federal government can always order or command state administrations.
During such incidents, states can request the federal government to intervene and help stabilize peoples security. Accordingly, the federal government has reacted immediately to subdue the dissident group after which the state becomes stable.
Raey Party President Teshale Sebro also agrees that federal system is crucial to Ethiopia as the country is home to various nations, nationalities and peoples who live in tolerance. However, he says, the structure by itself is the cause of problems rather than ensure the expected one.
The federal government should be appreciated when it takes immediate action to control the violent forces. But it shows that the government has some gaps yet in the aspect of preparation.
To solve the problems, amending the constitution, working in collaboration, and national consensus and reconciliation should be the priority points of the nation, Teshale noted.
The Ethiopian Herald, June 29/2019
BY MESERET BEHAILU AND DARGIE KAHSAY
