A Press Statement on Constitutional Amendments proposed by the Ethiopian Institute of Policy Studies
Last week, the Caucus of Opposition Parties (COPs) have heard with dismay and serious concern from media – what appears to be a government sponsored and politically motivated study paper by an Ethiopian government agency called Institute of Policy Studies. To us, the said research is a methodologically flawed wish list of certain quarters, and above all an untimely initiative. And it is unfortunate that such a lopsided paper is presented to the public at this critical juncture of our country’s history where the bloodiest war just ended and we are still in the midst of war in much of Oromia. Such papers are not only misleading, but can also lead our country into more chaos as there is very little consensus regarding constitutional reform both among the country’s political forces and the diverse Ethiopian communities. In this regard, we strongly believe that such a proposal is meaningless before a broader agreement is reached among the country’s major stake holders, which should be backed by genuine and all inclusive national dialogue. It should not be forgotten that it is the “ I can do it alone” that has led the country into the endless crisis it has been wallowing in for decades in which millions lost their lives and millions more have been displaced.
To be sure, it is highly disturbing that the so-called research has been conducted with little regard for scientific objectivity, and as can be read from the methodology used as well as our own observation, it is tailored to serve a hidden political interest of certain circles and at that contains highly deceptive findings. Here, it is important to note that politicizing scientific research for narrow political interest and personal gains can easily jeopardize the foundation of our already precarious stability and the hoped for democratic transition.
As responsible citizens, we urge those who are promoting such a divisive political agenda to stop it so as to save our country from the potential harm it could cause and a perilous road to destruction. And, we also strongly suggest that scientific research is conducted with a necessary transparency and objectivity where the results can be validated through a broad Consultative process. Therefore, COP urge our policymakers to take a closer look at this research paper, investigate the matter thoroughly, and take corrective measures to prevent any further spread of misinformation. We think, it is only by doing so that we can uphold the principles of democracy and make informed decisions for the betterment of our country and its various peoples.
Regarding a possible constitutional reform, we want to remind all the concerned parties that under the existing Ethiopian situation, genuine national dialogue and a broad-based agreement is reached among the country’s political forces on the way the future Ethiopian government is structured as well the political system thereof is organized take precedence over yet another hasty measures and reckless moves by few political parties that may have serious consequences for the country and its various peoples.
Taking this opportunity, the Caucus also ask the ruling party and its government structures to ensure ‘the right to self-determination of the nations, nationalities and the peoples of Ethiopia’ as per the provisions in the existing constitution when treating the demands of the various peoples of the country such as the Wolaita’s quest for referendum to save the people from unnecessary conflict and bloodshed.
Caucus of Opposition Parties (COPs)
May 23, 2023
