On 16 February 2018, the Council of Ministers of Ethiopia declared a state of emergency to protect the constitution and constitutional order and to ensure the security and stability of the country.
The article 93 of the Ethiopian Constitution provides the power for the Council of Ministers to decree a state of emergency in case of external invasion, a breakdown of law and order which endangers constitutional order, natural disaster or an epidemic occur. During its 17-day meeting, the ruling party EPRDF was considering the issue of declaring a state of emergency if the situation did not improve in the weeks following the meeting.
For the past few weeks, the violence that has been going on in some areas of the country has undermined not only the security but also the harmony and peaceful coexistence of its peoples. These violent activities have been accompanied by attacks which led to the displacement, death and injury of people, damage on property and slowed investment. The decree also aims at protecting the freedom of movement and the rights of citizens to live wherever they choose. It was a response to the public’s request for protection as dangerous activities have continued to expand and recur again.
The decree allows law enforcement bodies to detain without court warrant any individual who orchestrated, led and organised or took part in criminal acts against the constitution and constitutional order. The individual will face justice after a necessary investigation. Law enforcement bodies can also seize materials which were utilised or could be used to commit crimes, search any houses, areas and vehicles as well as stop, ask and search a person without a court warrant. The State of Emergency will remain in effect for six months, and the decree will be tabled in the House of People’s Representatives with 15 days.
It’s hoped that the state of emergency will create a sober environment for the government to implement its broad and multifaceted reform program.
