Ethiopia's Justice Minister, Hana Areaya selassie, has announced significant strides in the country's justice system, underscoring the successful implementation of a strategic roadmap initiated three years ago.
These reforms, Minister Hana claims, have not only improved the efficiency of legal processes but also restored public confidence in the judicial framework, marking a transformative period in Ethiopia's approach to legal reform.
In her recent EBC “Addis Ken” exclusive interview, Minister Hana detailed the various initiatives undertaken by the Ministry of Justice aimed at overhauling the justice sector.
She emphasized that these efforts have gone beyond mere procedural changes; they have fostered a renewed sense of trust among the populace, which is crucial for the legitimacy of any legal system.
Central to these reforms is the integration of traditional justice mechanisms into the national legal framework.
Minister Hana acknowledged that community-led initiatives play an essential role in resolving conflicts at the grassroots level. By promoting traditional practices alongside modern legal systems, the ministry seeks to create a more inclusive environment that respects local customs while upholding national laws.
"The roadmap for reforming our justice system has proven effective. By recognizing and incorporating traditional methods, we are not only preserving cultural heritage but also enhancing access to justice for all Ethiopians,” stated Minister Hana.
In the meantime, the establishment of traditional courts across the country has been a significant development in this reform process, according to experts.
Following this, Noah Takele, Director of Justice System Reform at the Ministry of Justice, for his part, elaborated on this progress during a recent appearance on the Addis Ken News Show.
He explained that before modern legal frameworks, various ethnic groups resolved disputes through their traditional practices.
The roadmap has enabled these systems to be strengthened and formalized within the broader context of Ethiopian law.
Through extensive studies and consultations, we have identified the strengths and weaknesses of traditional judicial practices. We have prepared model legal systems tailored to different regions, allowing them to formulate their laws that align with local circumstances,” Noah noted.
This approach emphasizes collaboration rather than competition. Noah pointed out that traditional courts provide services that complement regular judicial processes, focusing on mediation and conflict resolution rather than punitive measures.
"It’s not about making one party a winner and another a loser," he explained. "By recognizing these traditional systems, communities can resolve disputes in a way that is culturally relevant and peaceful."
The impact of these reforms is already visible.
Issa Boru, Deputy Chairman of the Standing Committee on Law and Justice Affairs of the House of People's Representatives, remarked on the encouraging results emerging from the courts as a direct result of implementing the roadmap effectively.
He highlighted the adoption of technology-based practices in various regions, which aim to prevent client abuse and streamline legal processes.
"The integration of technology is not just a trend; it's a necessity,” Issa stated. "By modernizing our approach, we are ensuring that our justice system is transparent and accountable."
According to them, as Ethiopia continues to navigate its path toward a more equitable justice system, the emphasis on traditional courts represents a significant shift in how legal disputes are managed. These courts not only address immediate conflicts but also contribute to long-term social cohesion by fostering mutual understanding among diverse communities, they stated.