Addis Ababa, June 6, 2023 (FBC) – The Ethiopian Government Communication Service (GCS) in its response to allegations by Human Rights Watch (HRW) says that the report by Human Rights Watch issued on 1st June 2023 is yet another sensational report containing a litany of allegations of grave human rights violations.
GCS stated that the report has released allegations without conducting a thorough and credible investigation in all areas affected by the conflict.
The allegations are not substantiated by evidence it said adding that it is distorted and misleading portrayal of the situation attempts to undermine peaceful coexistence and fuel inter-ethnic conflict and obstruct the national efforts for peace and reconciliation in Ethiopia.
GCS in its response added that the conflict in northern Ethiopia has affected communities in the Afar, Amhara, and Tigray regions.
The Human Rights Watch Report is only interested in one specific area, GCS has stated.
The timing of the report also shows it is manufactured to advance its agenda against Ethiopia in the international forums, it has added.
Ethiopia has independent institutions such as the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission and law enforcement agencies to ensure the protection of human rights through a proper and comprehensive investigation of violations committed in the context of the conflict GCS indicated adding the Government has facilitated the Joint Investigation of OHCHR and the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC).
GCS further indicated that the Inter-Ministerial Task Force has been implementing the recommendations of the Joint Investigation and working on the investigation, the rehabilitation of victims, and legislative reforms.
With the signing of the Pretoria Peace Agreement, the Government of Ethiopia has embarked upon nationwide consultations on Policy Options for Transitional Justice for Ethiopia, it has stated.
It added that a number of consultations have been conducted with stakeholders in the Government, CSOs, political parties, and the international community.
“The transitional justice process will allow a comprehensive investigation, the truth will be told, and perpetrators of crimes committed will be held accountable” GCS has stated.
GCS stated that the National Dialogue Commission is working on addressing the root causes of conflicts and other national problems in the country.
GCS recalled in its response that the Ethiopian Government has invited the OHCHR and EHRC Joint Team of Investigation to monitor the human rights situation in conflict areas in the northern part of the country.