Ethiopia’s State Minister of Justice, Ermias Yemane-Berhan, has highlighted the pivotal role the forthcoming Transitional Justice (TJ) Policy will play in advancing the country's efforts to establish a robust and inclusive democratic system. Speaking at a training session in Addis Ababa, aimed at media leaders and experts, Ermias emphasized that the successful implementation of TJ policies depends on the media’s critical role in informing and engaging the public.
According to the state minister, Ethiopia’s TJ framework is designed to address the nation’s historical and recent challenges, particularly in ensuring justice for victims of human rights abuses. This policy aims to foster reconciliation, peace, stability, and adherence to the rule of law while providing compensation to victims. Ermias underscored that by prioritizing reconciliation, compensation, forgiveness, and accountability, TJ will lay the groundwork for a future where citizens’ rights are protected, and past injustices are redressed.
A comprehensive roadmap for the TJ policy's implementation has been developed, marking a significant milestone. This roadmap will serve as a guide for addressing the complex issues arising from Ethiopia’s past, with legal frameworks already in progress to criminalize international crimes. Additionally, commissions dedicated to truth-telling, amnesty, reparations, and other TJ pillars are in the process of being established to ensure the policy's holistic application.
Ermias called for broad public involvement, asserting that the success of the TJ process hinges on collective participation in national healing efforts. He further emphasized that the media must play an indispensable role in educating the public, raising awareness, and facilitating the engagement needed to foster peace and democracy.
In conclusion, the minister reiterated that the media’s active role in promoting understanding and mobilizing citizens is crucial to the full realization of the transitional justice framework, as reported by ENA.