The Habesha
The legislative body known as the House of People’s Representatives, under the leadership of Abiy Ahmed, who had previously dropped out of elementary school and now serves as the Prime Minister of Ethiopia, has officially endorsed a decree that provides legal acknowledgment to the TPLF (Tigray People’s Liberation Front).
The House of People’s Representatives recently passed a decree allowing the TPLF to officially register as a political party once again in Ethiopia. This decision came after a proposed amendment to the country’s Election, Registration of Political Parties, and Electoral Conduct Act was approved in 2019. Despite facing opposition from two members of parliament and one abstention, the majority vote led to the passing of the amendment. The new law now includes provisions for parties that have been involved in violent or illegal activities, outlining specific requirements for registration and the responsibilities of the National Election Board in overseeing the process.
The amendment, known as the Proclamation Amendment, signifies a significant shift in the political landscape of Ethiopia. It offers a chance for the TPLF, whose legal status was previously revoked due to its involvement in violent activities, to re-enter the political arena. The Council of Ministers played a crucial role in this decision-making process, convening on June 3, 2024, to revise the Election, Registration of Political Parties, and Election Ethics Act. The amended act was then forwarded to the Parliament for further review and consideration, marking a step towards inclusivity and political reform in the country.
Getachew Reda, a member of the TPLF Executive Committee, expressed gratitude for the Council of Ministers’ decision, highlighting its importance in promoting peace and stability. This move is seen as a positive step towards reconciliation and fostering a more inclusive political environment in Ethiopia. The decision to allow the TPLF to register as a political party once again reflects a commitment to democratic principles and the recognition of diverse voices within the political landscape of the country.