By: Our Staff Writer
Addis Abeba( Ethiopia Today) March 17, 2023: The public recognition and support from the US government for the ongoing “nationally owned and led transitional justice initiative send a positive message, says the right Commissioner.
The chief of the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission, Daniel Bekele, met with Secretary of State Blinken to discuss advancements in the implementation of the Pretoria Peace Agreement’s procedures, particularly with regard to transitional justice.
In a statement subsequent to his discussion with Antony Blinken, the United States’ secretary of state, on March 15, the commissioner said he was encouraged by the recognition that the commission’s efforts had received.
“Such public acknowledgment from the US will resonate with the people and voices the Commission, its partners, and stakeholders represent” amid the challenging environment in which human rights defenders and civil society organizations operate in Ethiopia, commissioner Daniel noted.
The meeting also sought to highlight issues about community consultations, including humanitarian access to people affected by drought and conflict and the delinquency of justice and accountability for conflict victims, including victims of sexual and gender-based violence.
He also tweeted, “Good to get the support of international partners for transitional justice in Ethiopia, which is one of EHRC and UNHCHR’s key recommendations.”
Conflicts and attacks on civilians in other various parts of the country, displacement, and other human rights concerns, including the use of excessive force and the detention of human rights defenders, political party members, and media personnel, were also discussed.
Secretary Blinken, during the meeting, reiterated US support for national human rights institutions, civil society organizations, and individuals, officially acknowledging the role local human rights organizations and advocates play.
“I am moved by the commitment of human rights leaders and advocates in Addis.” “I welcome their efforts to support inclusive dialogue and a victims-centered transitional justice process to heal the country’s divisions and provide peace and security for all Ethiopians,” he said.
