Parliament’s recent installment of a new leadership for two of the constitutionally created institutions of democracy in Ethiopia—the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) and Institution of the Ombudsman—in quick succession has sparked the kind of controversy both organizations could do without. Many expressed misgivings about the independence of the newly appointed leaders and the implications thereof for Ethiopia’s democratic space. The primary concern arises from the widely held perception that the incoming bosses are devoid of the impartiality required of a person who heads institutions tasked with grave responsibilities. Their track record lends credence to the validity of the unease they have evoked. The relative independence with which their predecessors carried out the duties entrusted to them is sure to raise fears that their stewardship will represent a backwards journey for the institutions, more so for the rights commission.
The appointment of the new chief human rights commissioner is a pivotal moment for Ethiopia’s democratic space. Human rights organizations, civil society activists, and citizens alike have been watching closely as the new leadership takes the reins of this critical role. A scenario where the commissioner lacks independence is bound to have severe consequences for the state of democracy, the rule of law, and human rights in the country. At its core, the role of the EHRC is to safeguard and promote the fundamental rights and freedoms of all citizens. This encompasses, among others, investigating human rights abuses, advocating for accountability, and providing recommendations to the government on how to improve human rights practices. The effectiveness of the human rights commissioner hinges significantly on the commissioner’s independence from political pressure and influence. When the commissioner operates under the looming shadow of governmental control or partisan affiliations, their ability to act as a genuine advocate for human rights is fundamentally compromised. In Ethiopia’s context, where intercommunal tensions and political polarization have historically undermined unity and accountability, the appointment of a non-independent human rights commissioner is likely to prevent them from serving as a vital check on government power, thereby entrenching authoritarian tendencies.
Appointing a commissioner lacking independence also has adverse implications in terms of signaling a deterioration of democratic norms within the country. Such an appointment can be interpreted as a deliberate move by the ruling party to maintain control rather than promote genuine democratic governance. This type of political maneuvering can further alienate citizens who are already skeptical of government intentions, undermining public trust in vital institutions. Moreover, the perception that governmental authority can influence human rights protection is bound to have a chilling effect on civic engagement, deterring activists, journalists, and ordinary citizens from speaking out against abuses or to advocate for reform. The fear of reprisals or the belief that their concerns will go unaddressed may stifle important conversations necessary for a thriving democracy. In a nation where activists have continually faced persecution, the appointment of a compromised human rights commissioner could discourage potential whistleblowers and advocates from engaging in the democratic process altogether.
Another worrying outcome of the appointment of a partisan human rights chief is that it takes a wrecking ball to the nascent institution building effort in the human rights realm. Ethiopia’s democratic space has been fragile, with institutions often struggling to operate independently from political influence. The appointment of a human rights commissioner without autonomy can exacerbate this weakness, prompting a further erosion of institutional integrity. If the commissioner cannot operate without fear of consequences or governmental retaliation, the entire human rights framework within the country is apt to become dysfunctional. This institutional decay can also lead to widespread human rights abuses going unchecked. If the commissioner fails to raise concerns over government actions or openly criticize abuses, there is a risk that violations will only get more egregious. In a context where constitutionally guaranteed basic liberties are routinely violated, the failure to address these concerns will have catastrophic implications for the lives and rights of millions of Ethiopians.
The ramifications of putting a biased individual at the helm of the human rights commission are not confined within Ethiopia’s borders. As one of the largest and most populous countries in the Horn of Africa, Ethiopia plays a significant role in regional stability. A weakened human rights framework contributes to unrest that spills over into neighboring countries. Such prospect can force neighboring nations to grapple with the consequences of instability. Furthermore, it is liable to affect Ethiopia’s improved international partnerships can also be affected. The global community has increasingly conditioned cooperation and support on human rights performance. If the nation is perceived as regressing on human rights, it may face mounting diplomatic pressures that result in sanctions or a withdrawal of aid. The implications for economic development could be dire if foreign investment diminishes due to instability or lack of respect for human rights.
Ethiopia stands at a crossroads. The implications of appointing a human rights chief who lacks independence are profound. In order to bolster the democratic space, it is of the essence to attach the utmost importance to the establishment of an independent and credible human rights framework. This includes not only selecting a commissioner with the necessary qualifications, but also ensuring that all appointments are guided by principles of transparency and accountability. The possibility of further erosion of democratic norms, weakened institutions, and heightened regional instability underscores the urgent need for genuine commitment to human rights and democracy. The path forward lies in the hands of the Ethiopian government as well as its engaged citizenry. Only by fostering an independent human rights framework can Ethiopia hope to fulfill the aspirations of its people for a democratic, prosperous and stable future.
