Ethiopia's Mass Media Draft Law Vital to Establish Robust Framework to Ensure Public Benefits

Addis Ababa November 21/2024 (ENA) Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Democratic Affairs at the House of Peoples Representatives, Ewnete Alene, said the Draft Proclamation of Mass Media is designed to establish a robust framework that benefits the nation and its people. 

The Ethiopian Media Authority emphasized that the draft proclamation aims to promote a governance structure that balances freedom and accountability. 

A public hearing organized by the Standing Committee was held bringing together representatives from media organizations, professional associations, civil society groups, and legal experts.

 

Deputy Director-General of the Ethiopian Media Authority, Yonatan Tesfaye, provided detailed insights into the necessity of amending the current proclamation. 

He highlighted that the amendments are being drafted to ensure the proclamation serves the public and government interests while fostering the development of the media sector.

The current Media Diversity Proclamation, ratified two years ago under Proclamation No. 1238/2013, laid the groundwork for expanding media organizations, professional associations, and the establishment of a Media Council. 

However, gaps in its implementation have revealed challenges in governance structures, board organization, and the delegation of authority, necessitating revisions.

The draft amendments focus on enhancing the authority's efficiency, effectiveness, and responsiveness while enabling robust monitoring and execution capabilities. 

Participants in the consultation stressed the importance of ensuring the revisions address content that could harm national security or disrupt democratic progress. 

They also urged for mechanisms to prevent abuse of democratic principles and protect public interests.

The revising of the law should consider ensuring representation of media professionals and the public upholding pluralism and independence, the participants highlighted.

Media institutions also stressed the need for mechanisms to be included in the law regarding the establishment of enabling environment regarding prosecution procedure, compliant and Media Council support among others. They also requested for additional consultations to be held on the matter. 

 

Ethiopian Media Authority, Director-General, Mohammed Idris, stressed that the draft amendment aims to build a strong executive institution and establish a balanced system of independence and accountability.

He also emphasized that the revisions prioritize public welfare and national security, creating a conducive environment for a resilient and dynamic media landscape.

Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Democratic Affairs at the House of People's Representatives, Ewnete Alene, said the Draft Proclamation of Mass Media is designed to establish a robust framework that benefits the nation and its people.

The committee will incorporate the feedback from the consultation into the legislative process to ensure the revised proclamation addresses the identified gaps. 

Participants were also encouraged to submit further input for consideration in upcoming discussions.

In conclusion, the amendments aim to establish a vibrant media environment that balances freedom with accountability, ensuring the sector contributes to national development and the strengthening of democratic institutions.