From Ethiopiawinet@yahoogroups.com Sat Mar 12 18:22:27 2005 From: Ethiopiawinet@yahoogroups.com (Mariam) Date: Sat, 12 Mar 2005 10:22:27 -0800 (PST) Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] [Ethiopiawinet] EACF PRESS RELEASE REGARDING THE UPCOMING ELECTION IN ETHIOPIA Message-ID: <20050312182228.624.qmail@web52207.mail.yahoo.com> --0-80708552-1110651747=:540 Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Release Contact: Mariam Fikre Phone: (202) 545-1056 Email: mariam@ethiopianamerican.org Web: http://www.ethiopianamerican.org The Ethiopian American Constituency Foundation (EACF) would like to express its excitement and appreciation of the upcoming election in Ethiopia, and would like to ensure that it is free, fair and truly democratic. EACF would like to remind all parties involved, including the current government, to be responsible in making sure that all people are represented equally and fairly and that all their voices and concerns are heard. Ethiopia, however diverse its population, is one nation that belongs to all equally, and each party needs to keep that in mind and ensure that it remains that way. It is critical that each party understands its responsibility to not only address but also actively work to find ways to resolve any ethnic conflict internally, as it poses a great threat to Ethiopia. Other serious threats that also need to be addressed and resolved are the spread of HIV/AIDS, lack of education, jobs, housing and health care, poverty, corruption, and hunger. The only way th at Ethiopia can truly resolve any of these problems is when its leaders promote unity, as it will require for everyone to come together as a nation to combat these problems. Just as historically Ethiopia stood up to colonialism and external threats united, it must now do the same in resolving and defeating the internal strife that is plaguing its development. Ethiopia, a once powerful country that defended itself and maintained its independence, should now use this opportunity to show the world that it can solve its own problems and as the host country of African Unity be a leading example of democracy. This is a very critical time for Ethiopia and the success of this election is monumental. A democratic country with stable government will attract more foreign investment helping the further development of the country and reversing of the brain drain. The Ethiopian people deserve to have true democracy and government that works and fights for its people. EACF believes a free and fair election is a critical first step towards this goal and hopes that each party takes this great responsibility very seriously and that they do their part to ensure that it is free and fair. The future of Ethiopia depends on the outcome of this election and EACF encourages all Ethiopians to fully participate in the process and exercise their democratic rights and duties. It is everyone’s responsibility to work together to bring peace, stability and development back to this beloved and historical country. __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com --0-80708552-1110651747=:540 Content-Type: text/html; charset=us-ascii Content-Transfer-Encoding: 8bit

PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release

Contact: Mariam Fikre

Phone: (202) 545-1056

Email: mariam@ethiopianamerican.org

Web: http://www.ethiopianamerican.org

The Ethiopian American Constituency Foundation (EACF) would like to express its excitement and appreciation of the upcoming election in Ethiopia, and would like to ensure that it is free, fair and truly democratic. EACF would like to remind all parties involved, including the current government, to be responsible in making sure that all people are represented equally and fairly and that all their voices and concerns are heard. Ethiopia, h owever diverse its population, is one nation that belongs to all equally, and each party needs to keep that in mind and ensure that it remains that way. It is critical that each party understands its responsibility to not only address but also actively work to find ways to resolve any ethnic conflict internally, as it poses a great threat to Ethiopia. Other serious threats that also need to be addressed and resolved are the spread of HIV/AIDS, lack of education, jobs, housing and health care, poverty, corruption, and hunger. The only way that Ethiopia can truly resolve any of these problems is when its leaders promote unity, as it will require for everyone to come together as a nation to combat these problems. Just as historically Ethiopia stood up to colonialism and external threats united, it must now do the same in resolving and defeating the internal strife that is plaguing its development. Ethiopia, a once powerful country that defended itself and maintained its independence, should now use this opportunity to show the world that it can solve its own problems and as the host country of African Unity be a leading example of democracy. This is a very critical time for Ethiopia and the success of this election is monumental. A democratic country with stable government will attract more foreign investment helping the further development of the country and reversing of the brain drain. The Ethiopian people deserve to have true democracy and government that works and fights for its people. EACF believes a free and fair election is a critical first step towards this goal and hopes that each party takes this great responsibility very seriously and that they do their part to ensure that it is free and fair. The future of Ethiopia depends on the outcome of this election and EACF encourages all Ethiopians to fully participate in the process and exercise their democratic rights and duties. It is everyone’s responsibility to work together to bring peace, stability and development back to this beloved and historical country.

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--0-80708552-1110651747=:540-- From polethiopia@yahoo.com Thu Mar 17 09:13:33 2005 From: polethiopia@yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Thu, 17 Mar 2005 01:13:33 -0800 (PST) Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20050317091333.22375.qmail@web53307.mail.yahoo.com> March 16, 2005 Security Council extends UNMEE mandate ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – The United Nations Security Council Monday decided to extend the mandate of the United Nations Mission in Ethiopia and Eritrea (UNMEE) until 15 September 2005. In a resolution adopted unanimously, the Council once again welcomed Ethiopia’s five-point peace proposal, Ethiopia unequivocally expressed its commitment to resolve the dispute with Eritrea through peaceful and only peaceful means. The proposal called for dialogue to resolve the border dispute and normalization of relations. The Council’s resolution expressed, “…disappointment about the continuing refusal of Eritrea to engage with the Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Ethiopia and Eritrea, whose good offices represent a concrete opportunity for both parties to move the peace process forward.” The council “reiterates its full support for the Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Ethiopia and Eritrea, Lloyd Ax worthy, in his efforts to facilitate the implementation of the Algiers Agreements, the decision of the Boundary Commission and normalization of diplomatic relations between the two countries through his good offices, and emphasizes that this appointment does not constitute an alternative mechanism. It also called on both parties to cooperate fully and expeditiously with UNMEE in the implementation of its mandate, to ensure the security of immediately and unconditionally all restrictions on and impediments to the work and to the full and free movement of UNMEE and its staff. 62 project sites selected suitable for floriculture ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – The Minister of Trade and Industry has announced that 62 suitable project sites have been selected in Ethiopia for local and foreign investors willing to engage in floriculture development. Girma Birru made the announcement here yesterday during talks with a floriculture delegation from the Netherlands. Girma said the sites selected for floriculture development are not far from Addis Ababa, have adequate water reserve and suitable weather. Girma said the government is committed to provide support for foreign investors willing to invest in floriculture development in Ethiopia. The Ethiopian Government has attached special attention to the development of floriculture, Girma said. He also said the country should receive technical assistance from countries like the Netherlands, that are advanced in the sector. He told the delegation that foreign companies engaged in floriculture investment in Ethiopia are exempt from tax for three years after the commencement of their projects. One Dutch company has been conducting preliminary study to establish a similar project on 300 hectares near Addis Ababa, he indicated. The government has made preparations to provide efficient air cargo services and to supply the necessary inputs for floriculture investments, he added. Manager of Dutch Rose Growers, Mr., Beelen on his part said the attention the Ethiopian Government has attached to the development of floriculture has attracted the attention of Dutch investors in the field. During the week-long visit, the delegation toured floriculture development sites in Holeta, Wonji, Sululta, Debre Zeit, Koka and other localities. Over 25.6 mln. Voters registered ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – The National Electoral Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) announced that over 25.6 million voters have been registered to cast their votes in the state and national elections scheduled for May, except the Somali State where voting is scheduled to take place in August. Some 1,574 party and independent candidates will contest for seats in the House of peoples’ Representatives (HPR) and 3,669 candidates for state councils. Board Deputy Head Tesfaye Mengesha told ENA yesterday that 25,605,851 voters have registered, of whom 12 million 340,000 are women. Tesfaye said that 9,177,520 and 7,270,722 voters have received their voter IDs in the Oromia and Amhara states respectively. Over 5 million people have also received voter IDs in the Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples State. Meanwhile, the number of voters registered in Tigray, Afar, Benshangul-Gumuz, Gambella, Harari states, Addis Ababa and Dire Dawa Interim administrations has shown a marked increase compared with the previous national elections. Tesfaye said that 37 political parties have fielded their candidates to contest for seats in the HPR and state councils. Some 423 independent candidates have also registered to take part in the election. He said 273 women candidates are running for seats in the HPR. Some 55 of them are independent candidates and the rest party nominated, he added. Similarly, Tesfaye said that 827 women candidates have registered to vie for seats in state councils. Twelve are independents. The number of registered voters during the 1992 E.C. national elections was 20,354,156. Meanwhile, a joint committee drawn from different political parties contesting for seats in the HPR and state councils to create conducive atmosphere in the upcoming elections has been established recently in Bahir Dar town, Western Gojjam and Bahir Dar town election coordinator said. The coordinator Tilahun Degife said yesterday that the joint committee was set up by the Amhara National Democratic Movement (ANDM), Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD) and United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF). He also said that the joint committee consisting of six members has the responsibility such as resolving disagreements among the parties so that the election would be free and fair, organizing campaigning forums, facilitating the use of media, among others. Similarly, education on election campaigns has been provided to contesting candidates in Bahir Dar town constituency, Tilahun said. Meanwhile, Head of Women’s Affairs Bureau with the Tigray State’s government has announced that women candidates in the State constitute 37 per cent of the total candidature for seats in the HPR. Roman Gebre-Selassie told “Abyotawi Democracy”, organ of the EPRDF, that women has also taken 50 per cent of the candidature among the contestants for seats in the states council. The percentage of women candidacy foe membership in the House has grown to 37 per cent now, from only 10.5 per cent during the second national elections, she said. Women candidate who had contested for seats in the state council during the second elections was 28 per cent. Roman has announced activities to raise the percentage of women candidacy to 50 per cent for seats in the woreda councils. In connection with the elections, women forums have been organized by the bureau and the Tigray Women Democratic Association, she said. Activities aimed at boosting women’s political empowerment by increased participation in electing and being elected began a year-and-a-half ago in the state, she indicated. Italy seeks to maintain scientific cooperation with Ethiopia By Yemane Terefe ADDIS ABABA – Italian Ambassador Guido La Tella said that his country is strongly interested in the promotion and progress of geological studies in Ethiopia. He also said the Government of Italy intends to continue supporting high quality scientific cooperation between the two countries particularly in the field of earth science. Speaking at a half-day conference entitled: “Earth Science for Development” organized by Italian and Ethiopian universities (AAU and Makalle at the Italian Cultural Institute yesterday, Ambassador La Tella said that over the past 15 years, the Italian Development Cooperation has given extensive support to scientific research in Ethiopian academic institutions. According to the Ambassador Italy’s support to the development of earth science sector comes in various forms such as training of professors and other staff through the promotion of high level research. Accordingly, various dedicated Italian professors have worked in Ethiopia greatly contributing to the expansion of the sector. Prof. Paolo Billi form Ferrara University, research finding here shown that once gully erosion starts, it cannot be reversed. He indicated that gully erosion could be stopped only if human beings energy supply greatly increases. The researches have been conducted in Axum, Akobo, Dessie Hayk, Awash and Zeway rivers since the last two years. Asked about the objective of the research, the Prof. responded that it was aimed at understanding the relationship between environmental change and human impact to properly address the problem. Dr. Tamiru Alemayehu, AAU Department of Earth Science, on his part said that there is no continuity of fund and research by Ethiopians and Italians. Dr. Tamiru and other scholars suggested the provision of sustainable fund for strengthening joint research activities. Geology students from Italian higher institutes and professionals from the AAU were in attendance at the conference. ================================= Pol.ethiopia March 17,2004 ==================== __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com From polethiopia@yahoo.com Wed Mar 23 14:06:34 2005 From: polethiopia@yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Wed, 23 Mar 2005 06:06:34 -0800 (PST) Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20050323140634.20458.qmail@web53305.mail.yahoo.com> March 23, 2005 AU Commissioner calls for harmonized efforts to establish African Standby Force ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – The African Union (AU) and other regional mechanisms should work in a harmonized and coordinated manner to strengthen ongoing efforts to establish the African Standby Force (ASF), AU’s Peace and Security Commissioner, Ambassador Said Djinnit said. Speaking at the opening of a two-day experts’ meeting on the relationship between the AU and the regional mechanisms for conflict prevention, management and resolution, the commissioner said establishment of the standby force would have significant contribution in bringing about sustainable peace and development in the continent. Ambassador Djinnit further said the G8 member countries, the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) and other regional organizations in the continent should fully support the Commission’s efforts to establishment of the African Standby Force (ASF). ASF would hold the responsibility of resolving conflicts that may erupt in the continent, Ambassador Djinnit said. According to the Commissioner, the status of the establishment of the ASF and Military Staff Committee (MSC) at continental level, the memorandum of understanding between AU and Regional Mechanisms, the status of the establishment of the Continental Early Warning System would be major points the meeting will focus on. Participants of the meting will also hold group discussions and exchange views on relevant matters such as capacity building and preparation of the meeting with G8 and other partners. President stresses irrigation dev’t as World Water Day marked ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – President Girma Wolde-Giorgis says that with recurrent drought and insufficient rainfall, enhancing irrigation development activities is decisive to increase food production in the country. The President said that irrigation development schemes are aggressively underway and rainwater harvesting is being widely practiced with a view to ensuring food security. The President was speaking at the celebration of the World Water Day and the launching of the International Decade for Action, “Water for Life” here yesterday. President Girma commended the importance given by the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) to food security, poverty reduction, environmental sustainability and providing sustainable access to safe drinking water. President Girma said that Ethiopia’s Water Sector Development Programme (WSDP) has been designed with a view to addressing challenges in the sector. The President said that the Ethiopian Water Resources Management Policy is formulated based on environmental conservation, integrated water resources management and economic efficiency. President Girma said that the government has taken appropriate steps to harness the country’s relatively big hydropower potential on some of the river basins that makes export to energy deficit countries feasible. Minister of Water Resources Shiferaw Jarso on his part said that the ground work and the necessary enabling environment have been put in place with a view to tackling the challenges in the water sector. The Minister said that a comprehensive and integrated water resources master plan studies have been conducted in six of the major river basins of the country. He said that irrigation has been given more attention in order to ensure food security and enhance the country’s economic development. The Minister then further indicated that over 90,000 hectares and 7,000 hectares are being developed in the Awash Basin and Koga respectively. According to the Minister, studies aimed at developing 200,000 hectares are also in progress. In the hydropower sub-sector, the Minister said Studies are being conducted in different parts of the country. Meanwhile, marking the Day, a women’s volleyball tournament was held here on the premises of the Ministry of Water Resources. The Ethiopian Water Sports Association beat the Ethiopian Grain Trade Enterprize 3-0. Marking the Day with sporting event will enhance the participation of workers in sports activities while at the same time remember the Day as special event, says Association President Zewdu Teferra. Economic advisor with the Ministry Mohammed Abdulwuhab awarded the trophy for the winning squad. Officials of the ministry and workers attended the event. ================================================ Pol.ethiopia March 23,2005 ================================ __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com From polethiopia@yahoo.com Tue Mar 29 13:57:42 2005 From: polethiopia@yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue, 29 Mar 2005 05:57:42 -0800 (PST) Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20050329135742.16948.qmail@web53308.mail.yahoo.com> March 29, 2005 NEBE launches website, information unit By Dagne Biazen ADDIS ABABA – The National Electoral Board of Ethiopia (NEBE yesterday launched a new website (WWW.electionsethiopia.Org) and a press and public information unit. In the first of a series of press conferences the Board held at its premises, Board Chairman Kemal Bedri said that the website and the press and information unit were launched with a view to making its activities and the whole electoral processes transparent and accountable. He added: |This is part of the NEBE’s efforts to provide the public with all information related to the upcoming elections slated for May 15, 2005.” The website contains information about the organization and operation of the elections the legal framework behind it as well as regular updates about the election process. The website would also to provide information about voter registration, candidates’ appeals and complaints as well as campaigning activities, in Amharic and English. The website was developed with the support of Electoral Reform International Services (ERIS) which is coordinating donor funding for the current election process in Ethiopia. The Press Unit will organize regular press conference session every 15 days while as elections day draws closer, the press conferences will be held as frequently as possible. According to Kemal, a total of 1,845 candidates have been registered to contest for seats in the House of Peoples’ Representatives where women accounted 271. For state councils, 3,662 candidates have been registered of whom 826 are women, he said, and added that 35 parties are taking part in the elections. Kemal further said that a joint political party forum is being set up and its statute is under discussion. The NEBE has also decided that students of higher learning institutions vote in constituencies to be established in the universities, he said, adding that the students would vote for constituencies where they have come from. Kemal also said that the NEBE has arranged training on elections as of today to leaders of students drawn from universities to enable them carry out registration process and conduct the elections. NEBE officials responded to questions raised by local journalists and foreign correspondents. Public hearing demands further discussion on rural land use bill ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – A public hearing on a bill providing for Rural Land Administration and Use has demanded further discussion to enrich the bill with the participation of stakeholders. Speaking at the public hearing held at the House of Peoples’ Representatives yesterday, participants said that the step taken by the government to prepare the bill with a view to ensuring ownership of land by the rural community is commendable. However, the participants said, that the bill should further be developed with farmers’ and pastoralist communities’ comments. They said that as the way of life of farmers and pastoralists greatly differ, the bill should be thoroughly discussed at state level before it is adopted at the federal level. The participants said articles particularly dealing with land distribution, re-distribution and inheritance deserve special caution and attention. Briefing on the overall content of the bill, State Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Prof. Tekalign Mammo said that the primary objective of the bill is to acquire and guarantee land ownership right of the rural community. According to the State Minister, the bill incorporates articles providing for a legitimate land lease, transferring through inheritance, donation or exchange as well as obligation of holders to protect the land. The State Minister said the draft law also includes individual and communal use of rural land, and particularly incorporates detailed regulations on states’ general land administration and use. Difficulties encountered is the implementation of sustainable land use plans at various levels, the continuous degradation of natural resources, the decline in agricultural products and productivity as well as the absence of land use and administration proclamation necessitated the bill, he said. Representatives of state governments’ and a cross section of the society attended the hearing organized by the Rural Development and Pastoralist Affairs Standing Committees of the House. The State Minister and members of the Standing Committees responded to questions raised by the participants. German Ambassador appreciates achievements in building democracy ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – The German Ambassador Dr. Helga Grafin von Strachwitz said that the building of a democratic system witnessed in Ethiopia after the demise of the Derg regime has been steadily strengthening. Ambassador Strachwitz said that achievements observed in Ethiopia in building a democratic order deserve appreciation, according to a publication of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Ambassador expressed belief that the upcoming national elections in Ethiopia would be conducted in a fair and free manner, and urged the public to elect candidates whom they believe would promote their will. The on-going debate between the ruling and opposition parties as well as the campaigns being carried out by all parties using the mass media is indicative of the government’s resolve to make the election fair and free, Ambassador Strachwitz said. Relations between Ethiopia and Germany have been strengthened in all areas, Ambassador Strachwitz said, adding that the two countries have also been working jointly at international forum. According to the Ministry, Germany has been providing capacity building support for technical education and environmental protection. ===================================== Pol.ethiopia March 29,2005 ======================== __________________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Yahoo! Small Business - Try our new resources site! http://smallbusiness.yahoo.com/resources/ From polethiopia@yahoo.com Wed Mar 30 13:18:04 2005 From: polethiopia@yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Wed, 30 Mar 2005 05:18:04 -0800 (PST) Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20050330131805.6145.qmail@web53305.mail.yahoo.com> March 30, 2005 House endorses terms recommended for inclusion in revised Penal Code ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – The House of Peoples’ Representatives during its regular session yesterday unanimously endorsed the recommendation calling for the inclusion of terms in the revised Penal Code, which was endorsed in June last year. The House also endorsed two other bills. The House had then passed a requisition that the terms recommended for inclusion undergo scrutiny and be made part of the revised Penal Code. Accordingly, the Legal and Administrative as well as the Women’s and Social Affairs Standing Committees have looked again into the Penal Code and made relevant consultations with pertinent professionals to have included draft points of amendment into the Penal Code, which is expected to be enforced as of 9 May this year. According to the Committees, the necessary corrections and adjustments have been made to give the revised Penal Code one last touch. New terms have been included, Articles have been combined or divided according to relevance, and others whose meanings have been found hazy have been clarified. Major alterations have also been made on some Articles in the revised Penal Code. The revised Penal Code, whose draft had undergone thorough discussions by a cross section of the society, is believed to safeguard the rights of citizens entirely. In a related development, the House unanimously endorsed the bill approving the loan agreement signed between the Government and the International Development Association (IDA) for the implementation of preparatory education capacity building project. His agreement is essential to produce the necessary skilled manpower both qualitatively and quantitatively. The agreement is in line with the country’s loan policy, the Budgetary and Finance Affairs Standing Committee of the House said. The House also endorsed with two objections the bill providing for the establishment of the Central Statistics Authority. The bill was deemed necessary in view of the growing demand for information in Ethiopia in particular and in the world in general. Thus the need for the Authority capable of supplying adequate statistical data to meet the growing demand. Prof. Maathai elected AU Council first president ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – Kenyan Prof. Wangari Maathai, the Nobel Laureate of 2004, has been elected by Africa’s Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to serve as the first president of the Interim General Assembly of the Economic, Social and Cultural Council of the African Union (AU-ECOSOCC) here Monday. Prof. Maathai will preside over a Bureau composed of four regional deputies, namely Prof. Maurice Tadadjeu (Central Africa), Farima Karadja (North Africa), Charles Mutasa (South Africa) and Ayodele Aderinwale (West Africa). According to a Communiqué’ issued by the AU, the Interim General Assembly also elected an 18 member Standing Committee to coordinate the work of ECOSOCC, whose composition was based on the principle of gender balance and youth representation. ECOSOCC is a vehicle for building a strong partnership between governments and all segments of African civil society and for achieving the goal of creating a people-centered African community, according to the Communiqué. Elected officials of the AU ECOSOCC were sworn in yesterday at the AU Conference Centre in Addis. EPRDF appeals against CUD’s agitation at places prohibited by law ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – The Ethiopian Peoples Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF) has urged the National Electoral Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) to oblige political parties to stop agitating in the name of election campaigns and at areas prohibited by law. Among the areas outlawed by the electoral law of the land for political campaigns are places of worship, EPRDF said in a statement yesterday. The law bans any political activity, save the kind that provokes social disharmony and discord, at religious institutions, it said. The ban was imposed to enable the faithful to pay their spiritual duty freely and undisturbed as well as in the light of the Constitution, which unequivocally separates religion from politics, it said. This being the truth, however, Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD) has been deploying its members to churches, agitating in jeopardy of social harmony and stability, it said. EPRDF said tangible proof for such illegal activities have been witnessed at St. Gabriel Church in Kebele 15/16 of the Arada Sub-city, where the head is a CUD member who goes to the name Megabe Tibeb Senay Ayele. CUD here has been engaged in throwing fliers whose themes communicate dangerous themes that can lead to social instability, it said. One of the fliers contain the report Megabe Tibeb Senay Ayele had submitted to his party, and this clearly shows the illegal activity CUD has been engaged in, it indicated. It noted that the illegal activities of CUD testifies that both the party and its members have not been ready to participate in the elections legally and honestly, but with spirits of violence and perversions. EPRDF in the statement to NEBE appealed to stop CUD from its illegal moves and take measures that may correct the instigator party. Joint Forum accepts election Code of Ethics ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – The Code of Ethics prepared to ensure the free and fair conduct of the upcoming national elections was accepted yesterday after in-depth discussions were held and amendments made by the Joint Forum formed by all contesting political parties. Composed of eight Articles, the Code of Ethics has been prepared by the National Electoral Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) and foreign experts in the field. The Code of Ethics endorses the right of candidates to impunity, issues related to the election, the Government decision, contenders’ mass media access and use as well as the rules contenders should adhere all through the process of the elections. The Code of Ethics was accepted unanimously by the Joint Forum, which is composed of delegates of EPRDF and all contending parties. The member parties of the Joint Forum are expected to ratify the Code of Ethics this coming Friday. ================================== Pol.ethiopia March 30,2005 ============================ __________________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Yahoo! Small Business - Try our new resources site! http://smallbusiness.yahoo.com/resources/ From mariam929 at yahoo.com Sat Mar 12 20:22:27 2005 From: mariam929 at yahoo.com (Mariam) Date: Tue Feb 27 14:15:39 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] [Ethiopiawinet] EACF PRESS RELEASE REGARDING THE UPCOMING ELECTION IN ETHIOPIA Message-ID: <20050312182228.624.qmail@web52207.mail.yahoo.com> PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Release Contact: Mariam Fikre Phone: (202) 545-1056 Email: mariam@ethiopianamerican.org Web: http://www.ethiopianamerican.org The Ethiopian American Constituency Foundation (EACF) would like to express its excitement and appreciation of the upcoming election in Ethiopia, and would like to ensure that it is free, fair and truly democratic. EACF would like to remind all parties involved, including the current government, to be responsible in making sure that all people are represented equally and fairly and that all their voices and concerns are heard. Ethiopia, however diverse its population, is one nation that belongs to all equally, and each party needs to keep that in mind and ensure that it remains that way. It is critical that each party understands its responsibility to not only address but also actively work to find ways to resolve any ethnic conflict internally, as it poses a great threat to Ethiopia. Other serious threats that also need to be addressed and resolved are the spread of HIV/AIDS, lack of education, jobs, housing and health care, poverty, corruption, and hunger. The only way th at Ethiopia can truly resolve any of these problems is when its leaders promote unity, as it will require for everyone to come together as a nation to combat these problems. Just as historically Ethiopia stood up to colonialism and external threats united, it must now do the same in resolving and defeating the internal strife that is plaguing its development. Ethiopia, a once powerful country that defended itself and maintained its independence, should now use this opportunity to show the world that it can solve its own problems and as the host country of African Unity be a leading example of democracy. This is a very critical time for Ethiopia and the success of this election is monumental. A democratic country with stable government will attract more foreign investment helping the further development of the country and reversing of the brain drain. The Ethiopian people deserve to have true democracy and government that works and fights for its people. EACF believes a free and fair election is a critical first step towards this goal and hopes that each party takes this great responsibility very seriously and that they do their part to ensure that it is free and fair. The future of Ethiopia depends on the outcome of this election and EACF encourages all Ethiopians to fully participate in the process and exercise their democratic rights and duties. It is everyone’s responsibility to work together to bring peace, stability and development back to this beloved and historical country. __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://lists.sn.apc.org/pipermail/pol.ethiopia/attachments/20050312/004f6c25/attachment.html From polethiopia at yahoo.com Thu Mar 17 11:13:33 2005 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Feb 27 14:15:39 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20050317091333.22375.qmail@web53307.mail.yahoo.com> March 16, 2005 Security Council extends UNMEE mandate ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – The United Nations Security Council Monday decided to extend the mandate of the United Nations Mission in Ethiopia and Eritrea (UNMEE) until 15 September 2005. In a resolution adopted unanimously, the Council once again welcomed Ethiopia’s five-point peace proposal, Ethiopia unequivocally expressed its commitment to resolve the dispute with Eritrea through peaceful and only peaceful means. The proposal called for dialogue to resolve the border dispute and normalization of relations. The Council’s resolution expressed, “…disappointment about the continuing refusal of Eritrea to engage with the Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Ethiopia and Eritrea, whose good offices represent a concrete opportunity for both parties to move the peace process forward.” The council “reiterates its full support for the Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Ethiopia and Eritrea, Lloyd Ax worthy, in his efforts to facilitate the implementation of the Algiers Agreements, the decision of the Boundary Commission and normalization of diplomatic relations between the two countries through his good offices, and emphasizes that this appointment does not constitute an alternative mechanism. It also called on both parties to cooperate fully and expeditiously with UNMEE in the implementation of its mandate, to ensure the security of immediately and unconditionally all restrictions on and impediments to the work and to the full and free movement of UNMEE and its staff. 62 project sites selected suitable for floriculture ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – The Minister of Trade and Industry has announced that 62 suitable project sites have been selected in Ethiopia for local and foreign investors willing to engage in floriculture development. Girma Birru made the announcement here yesterday during talks with a floriculture delegation from the Netherlands. Girma said the sites selected for floriculture development are not far from Addis Ababa, have adequate water reserve and suitable weather. Girma said the government is committed to provide support for foreign investors willing to invest in floriculture development in Ethiopia. The Ethiopian Government has attached special attention to the development of floriculture, Girma said. He also said the country should receive technical assistance from countries like the Netherlands, that are advanced in the sector. He told the delegation that foreign companies engaged in floriculture investment in Ethiopia are exempt from tax for three years after the commencement of their projects. One Dutch company has been conducting preliminary study to establish a similar project on 300 hectares near Addis Ababa, he indicated. The government has made preparations to provide efficient air cargo services and to supply the necessary inputs for floriculture investments, he added. Manager of Dutch Rose Growers, Mr., Beelen on his part said the attention the Ethiopian Government has attached to the development of floriculture has attracted the attention of Dutch investors in the field. During the week-long visit, the delegation toured floriculture development sites in Holeta, Wonji, Sululta, Debre Zeit, Koka and other localities. Over 25.6 mln. Voters registered ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – The National Electoral Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) announced that over 25.6 million voters have been registered to cast their votes in the state and national elections scheduled for May, except the Somali State where voting is scheduled to take place in August. Some 1,574 party and independent candidates will contest for seats in the House of peoples’ Representatives (HPR) and 3,669 candidates for state councils. Board Deputy Head Tesfaye Mengesha told ENA yesterday that 25,605,851 voters have registered, of whom 12 million 340,000 are women. Tesfaye said that 9,177,520 and 7,270,722 voters have received their voter IDs in the Oromia and Amhara states respectively. Over 5 million people have also received voter IDs in the Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples State. Meanwhile, the number of voters registered in Tigray, Afar, Benshangul-Gumuz, Gambella, Harari states, Addis Ababa and Dire Dawa Interim administrations has shown a marked increase compared with the previous national elections. Tesfaye said that 37 political parties have fielded their candidates to contest for seats in the HPR and state councils. Some 423 independent candidates have also registered to take part in the election. He said 273 women candidates are running for seats in the HPR. Some 55 of them are independent candidates and the rest party nominated, he added. Similarly, Tesfaye said that 827 women candidates have registered to vie for seats in state councils. Twelve are independents. The number of registered voters during the 1992 E.C. national elections was 20,354,156. Meanwhile, a joint committee drawn from different political parties contesting for seats in the HPR and state councils to create conducive atmosphere in the upcoming elections has been established recently in Bahir Dar town, Western Gojjam and Bahir Dar town election coordinator said. The coordinator Tilahun Degife said yesterday that the joint committee was set up by the Amhara National Democratic Movement (ANDM), Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD) and United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF). He also said that the joint committee consisting of six members has the responsibility such as resolving disagreements among the parties so that the election would be free and fair, organizing campaigning forums, facilitating the use of media, among others. Similarly, education on election campaigns has been provided to contesting candidates in Bahir Dar town constituency, Tilahun said. Meanwhile, Head of Women’s Affairs Bureau with the Tigray State’s government has announced that women candidates in the State constitute 37 per cent of the total candidature for seats in the HPR. Roman Gebre-Selassie told “Abyotawi Democracy”, organ of the EPRDF, that women has also taken 50 per cent of the candidature among the contestants for seats in the states council. The percentage of women candidacy foe membership in the House has grown to 37 per cent now, from only 10.5 per cent during the second national elections, she said. Women candidate who had contested for seats in the state council during the second elections was 28 per cent. Roman has announced activities to raise the percentage of women candidacy to 50 per cent for seats in the woreda councils. In connection with the elections, women forums have been organized by the bureau and the Tigray Women Democratic Association, she said. Activities aimed at boosting women’s political empowerment by increased participation in electing and being elected began a year-and-a-half ago in the state, she indicated. Italy seeks to maintain scientific cooperation with Ethiopia By Yemane Terefe ADDIS ABABA – Italian Ambassador Guido La Tella said that his country is strongly interested in the promotion and progress of geological studies in Ethiopia. He also said the Government of Italy intends to continue supporting high quality scientific cooperation between the two countries particularly in the field of earth science. Speaking at a half-day conference entitled: “Earth Science for Development” organized by Italian and Ethiopian universities (AAU and Makalle at the Italian Cultural Institute yesterday, Ambassador La Tella said that over the past 15 years, the Italian Development Cooperation has given extensive support to scientific research in Ethiopian academic institutions. According to the Ambassador Italy’s support to the development of earth science sector comes in various forms such as training of professors and other staff through the promotion of high level research. Accordingly, various dedicated Italian professors have worked in Ethiopia greatly contributing to the expansion of the sector. Prof. Paolo Billi form Ferrara University, research finding here shown that once gully erosion starts, it cannot be reversed. He indicated that gully erosion could be stopped only if human beings energy supply greatly increases. The researches have been conducted in Axum, Akobo, Dessie Hayk, Awash and Zeway rivers since the last two years. Asked about the objective of the research, the Prof. responded that it was aimed at understanding the relationship between environmental change and human impact to properly address the problem. Dr. Tamiru Alemayehu, AAU Department of Earth Science, on his part said that there is no continuity of fund and research by Ethiopians and Italians. Dr. Tamiru and other scholars suggested the provision of sustainable fund for strengthening joint research activities. Geology students from Italian higher institutes and professionals from the AAU were in attendance at the conference. ================================= Pol.ethiopia March 17,2004 ==================== __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Wed Mar 23 16:06:34 2005 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Feb 27 14:15:39 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20050323140634.20458.qmail@web53305.mail.yahoo.com> March 23, 2005 AU Commissioner calls for harmonized efforts to establish African Standby Force ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – The African Union (AU) and other regional mechanisms should work in a harmonized and coordinated manner to strengthen ongoing efforts to establish the African Standby Force (ASF), AU’s Peace and Security Commissioner, Ambassador Said Djinnit said. Speaking at the opening of a two-day experts’ meeting on the relationship between the AU and the regional mechanisms for conflict prevention, management and resolution, the commissioner said establishment of the standby force would have significant contribution in bringing about sustainable peace and development in the continent. Ambassador Djinnit further said the G8 member countries, the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) and other regional organizations in the continent should fully support the Commission’s efforts to establishment of the African Standby Force (ASF). ASF would hold the responsibility of resolving conflicts that may erupt in the continent, Ambassador Djinnit said. According to the Commissioner, the status of the establishment of the ASF and Military Staff Committee (MSC) at continental level, the memorandum of understanding between AU and Regional Mechanisms, the status of the establishment of the Continental Early Warning System would be major points the meeting will focus on. Participants of the meting will also hold group discussions and exchange views on relevant matters such as capacity building and preparation of the meeting with G8 and other partners. President stresses irrigation dev’t as World Water Day marked ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – President Girma Wolde-Giorgis says that with recurrent drought and insufficient rainfall, enhancing irrigation development activities is decisive to increase food production in the country. The President said that irrigation development schemes are aggressively underway and rainwater harvesting is being widely practiced with a view to ensuring food security. The President was speaking at the celebration of the World Water Day and the launching of the International Decade for Action, “Water for Life” here yesterday. President Girma commended the importance given by the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) to food security, poverty reduction, environmental sustainability and providing sustainable access to safe drinking water. President Girma said that Ethiopia’s Water Sector Development Programme (WSDP) has been designed with a view to addressing challenges in the sector. The President said that the Ethiopian Water Resources Management Policy is formulated based on environmental conservation, integrated water resources management and economic efficiency. President Girma said that the government has taken appropriate steps to harness the country’s relatively big hydropower potential on some of the river basins that makes export to energy deficit countries feasible. Minister of Water Resources Shiferaw Jarso on his part said that the ground work and the necessary enabling environment have been put in place with a view to tackling the challenges in the water sector. The Minister said that a comprehensive and integrated water resources master plan studies have been conducted in six of the major river basins of the country. He said that irrigation has been given more attention in order to ensure food security and enhance the country’s economic development. The Minister then further indicated that over 90,000 hectares and 7,000 hectares are being developed in the Awash Basin and Koga respectively. According to the Minister, studies aimed at developing 200,000 hectares are also in progress. In the hydropower sub-sector, the Minister said Studies are being conducted in different parts of the country. Meanwhile, marking the Day, a women’s volleyball tournament was held here on the premises of the Ministry of Water Resources. The Ethiopian Water Sports Association beat the Ethiopian Grain Trade Enterprize 3-0. Marking the Day with sporting event will enhance the participation of workers in sports activities while at the same time remember the Day as special event, says Association President Zewdu Teferra. Economic advisor with the Ministry Mohammed Abdulwuhab awarded the trophy for the winning squad. Officials of the ministry and workers attended the event. ================================================ Pol.ethiopia March 23,2005 ================================ __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Tue Mar 29 15:57:42 2005 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Feb 27 14:15:39 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20050329135742.16948.qmail@web53308.mail.yahoo.com> March 29, 2005 NEBE launches website, information unit By Dagne Biazen ADDIS ABABA – The National Electoral Board of Ethiopia (NEBE yesterday launched a new website (WWW.electionsethiopia.Org) and a press and public information unit. In the first of a series of press conferences the Board held at its premises, Board Chairman Kemal Bedri said that the website and the press and information unit were launched with a view to making its activities and the whole electoral processes transparent and accountable. He added: |This is part of the NEBE’s efforts to provide the public with all information related to the upcoming elections slated for May 15, 2005.” The website contains information about the organization and operation of the elections the legal framework behind it as well as regular updates about the election process. The website would also to provide information about voter registration, candidates’ appeals and complaints as well as campaigning activities, in Amharic and English. The website was developed with the support of Electoral Reform International Services (ERIS) which is coordinating donor funding for the current election process in Ethiopia. The Press Unit will organize regular press conference session every 15 days while as elections day draws closer, the press conferences will be held as frequently as possible. According to Kemal, a total of 1,845 candidates have been registered to contest for seats in the House of Peoples’ Representatives where women accounted 271. For state councils, 3,662 candidates have been registered of whom 826 are women, he said, and added that 35 parties are taking part in the elections. Kemal further said that a joint political party forum is being set up and its statute is under discussion. The NEBE has also decided that students of higher learning institutions vote in constituencies to be established in the universities, he said, adding that the students would vote for constituencies where they have come from. Kemal also said that the NEBE has arranged training on elections as of today to leaders of students drawn from universities to enable them carry out registration process and conduct the elections. NEBE officials responded to questions raised by local journalists and foreign correspondents. Public hearing demands further discussion on rural land use bill ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – A public hearing on a bill providing for Rural Land Administration and Use has demanded further discussion to enrich the bill with the participation of stakeholders. Speaking at the public hearing held at the House of Peoples’ Representatives yesterday, participants said that the step taken by the government to prepare the bill with a view to ensuring ownership of land by the rural community is commendable. However, the participants said, that the bill should further be developed with farmers’ and pastoralist communities’ comments. They said that as the way of life of farmers and pastoralists greatly differ, the bill should be thoroughly discussed at state level before it is adopted at the federal level. The participants said articles particularly dealing with land distribution, re-distribution and inheritance deserve special caution and attention. Briefing on the overall content of the bill, State Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Prof. Tekalign Mammo said that the primary objective of the bill is to acquire and guarantee land ownership right of the rural community. According to the State Minister, the bill incorporates articles providing for a legitimate land lease, transferring through inheritance, donation or exchange as well as obligation of holders to protect the land. The State Minister said the draft law also includes individual and communal use of rural land, and particularly incorporates detailed regulations on states’ general land administration and use. Difficulties encountered is the implementation of sustainable land use plans at various levels, the continuous degradation of natural resources, the decline in agricultural products and productivity as well as the absence of land use and administration proclamation necessitated the bill, he said. Representatives of state governments’ and a cross section of the society attended the hearing organized by the Rural Development and Pastoralist Affairs Standing Committees of the House. The State Minister and members of the Standing Committees responded to questions raised by the participants. German Ambassador appreciates achievements in building democracy ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – The German Ambassador Dr. Helga Grafin von Strachwitz said that the building of a democratic system witnessed in Ethiopia after the demise of the Derg regime has been steadily strengthening. Ambassador Strachwitz said that achievements observed in Ethiopia in building a democratic order deserve appreciation, according to a publication of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Ambassador expressed belief that the upcoming national elections in Ethiopia would be conducted in a fair and free manner, and urged the public to elect candidates whom they believe would promote their will. The on-going debate between the ruling and opposition parties as well as the campaigns being carried out by all parties using the mass media is indicative of the government’s resolve to make the election fair and free, Ambassador Strachwitz said. Relations between Ethiopia and Germany have been strengthened in all areas, Ambassador Strachwitz said, adding that the two countries have also been working jointly at international forum. According to the Ministry, Germany has been providing capacity building support for technical education and environmental protection. ===================================== Pol.ethiopia March 29,2005 ======================== __________________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Yahoo! Small Business - Try our new resources site! http://smallbusiness.yahoo.com/resources/ From polethiopia at yahoo.com Wed Mar 30 15:18:04 2005 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Feb 27 14:15:39 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20050330131805.6145.qmail@web53305.mail.yahoo.com> March 30, 2005 House endorses terms recommended for inclusion in revised Penal Code ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – The House of Peoples’ Representatives during its regular session yesterday unanimously endorsed the recommendation calling for the inclusion of terms in the revised Penal Code, which was endorsed in June last year. The House also endorsed two other bills. The House had then passed a requisition that the terms recommended for inclusion undergo scrutiny and be made part of the revised Penal Code. Accordingly, the Legal and Administrative as well as the Women’s and Social Affairs Standing Committees have looked again into the Penal Code and made relevant consultations with pertinent professionals to have included draft points of amendment into the Penal Code, which is expected to be enforced as of 9 May this year. According to the Committees, the necessary corrections and adjustments have been made to give the revised Penal Code one last touch. New terms have been included, Articles have been combined or divided according to relevance, and others whose meanings have been found hazy have been clarified. Major alterations have also been made on some Articles in the revised Penal Code. The revised Penal Code, whose draft had undergone thorough discussions by a cross section of the society, is believed to safeguard the rights of citizens entirely. In a related development, the House unanimously endorsed the bill approving the loan agreement signed between the Government and the International Development Association (IDA) for the implementation of preparatory education capacity building project. His agreement is essential to produce the necessary skilled manpower both qualitatively and quantitatively. The agreement is in line with the country’s loan policy, the Budgetary and Finance Affairs Standing Committee of the House said. The House also endorsed with two objections the bill providing for the establishment of the Central Statistics Authority. The bill was deemed necessary in view of the growing demand for information in Ethiopia in particular and in the world in general. Thus the need for the Authority capable of supplying adequate statistical data to meet the growing demand. Prof. Maathai elected AU Council first president ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – Kenyan Prof. Wangari Maathai, the Nobel Laureate of 2004, has been elected by Africa’s Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to serve as the first president of the Interim General Assembly of the Economic, Social and Cultural Council of the African Union (AU-ECOSOCC) here Monday. Prof. Maathai will preside over a Bureau composed of four regional deputies, namely Prof. Maurice Tadadjeu (Central Africa), Farima Karadja (North Africa), Charles Mutasa (South Africa) and Ayodele Aderinwale (West Africa). According to a Communiqué’ issued by the AU, the Interim General Assembly also elected an 18 member Standing Committee to coordinate the work of ECOSOCC, whose composition was based on the principle of gender balance and youth representation. ECOSOCC is a vehicle for building a strong partnership between governments and all segments of African civil society and for achieving the goal of creating a people-centered African community, according to the Communiqué. Elected officials of the AU ECOSOCC were sworn in yesterday at the AU Conference Centre in Addis. EPRDF appeals against CUD’s agitation at places prohibited by law ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – The Ethiopian Peoples Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF) has urged the National Electoral Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) to oblige political parties to stop agitating in the name of election campaigns and at areas prohibited by law. Among the areas outlawed by the electoral law of the land for political campaigns are places of worship, EPRDF said in a statement yesterday. The law bans any political activity, save the kind that provokes social disharmony and discord, at religious institutions, it said. The ban was imposed to enable the faithful to pay their spiritual duty freely and undisturbed as well as in the light of the Constitution, which unequivocally separates religion from politics, it said. This being the truth, however, Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD) has been deploying its members to churches, agitating in jeopardy of social harmony and stability, it said. EPRDF said tangible proof for such illegal activities have been witnessed at St. Gabriel Church in Kebele 15/16 of the Arada Sub-city, where the head is a CUD member who goes to the name Megabe Tibeb Senay Ayele. CUD here has been engaged in throwing fliers whose themes communicate dangerous themes that can lead to social instability, it said. One of the fliers contain the report Megabe Tibeb Senay Ayele had submitted to his party, and this clearly shows the illegal activity CUD has been engaged in, it indicated. It noted that the illegal activities of CUD testifies that both the party and its members have not been ready to participate in the elections legally and honestly, but with spirits of violence and perversions. EPRDF in the statement to NEBE appealed to stop CUD from its illegal moves and take measures that may correct the instigator party. Joint Forum accepts election Code of Ethics ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – The Code of Ethics prepared to ensure the free and fair conduct of the upcoming national elections was accepted yesterday after in-depth discussions were held and amendments made by the Joint Forum formed by all contesting political parties. Composed of eight Articles, the Code of Ethics has been prepared by the National Electoral Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) and foreign experts in the field. The Code of Ethics endorses the right of candidates to impunity, issues related to the election, the Government decision, contenders’ mass media access and use as well as the rules contenders should adhere all through the process of the elections. The Code of Ethics was accepted unanimously by the Joint Forum, which is composed of delegates of EPRDF and all contending parties. The member parties of the Joint Forum are expected to ratify the Code of Ethics this coming Friday. ================================== Pol.ethiopia March 30,2005 ============================ __________________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Yahoo! Small Business - Try our new resources site! http://smallbusiness.yahoo.com/resources/ From mariam929 at yahoo.com Sat Mar 12 20:22:27 2005 From: mariam929 at yahoo.com (Mariam) Date: Tue Apr 17 18:19:42 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] [Ethiopiawinet] EACF PRESS RELEASE REGARDING THE UPCOMING ELECTION IN ETHIOPIA Message-ID: <20050312182228.624.qmail@web52207.mail.yahoo.com> PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Release Contact: Mariam Fikre Phone: (202) 545-1056 Email: mariam@ethiopianamerican.org Web: http://www.ethiopianamerican.org The Ethiopian American Constituency Foundation (EACF) would like to express its excitement and appreciation of the upcoming election in Ethiopia, and would like to ensure that it is free, fair and truly democratic. EACF would like to remind all parties involved, including the current government, to be responsible in making sure that all people are represented equally and fairly and that all their voices and concerns are heard. Ethiopia, however diverse its population, is one nation that belongs to all equally, and each party needs to keep that in mind and ensure that it remains that way. It is critical that each party understands its responsibility to not only address but also actively work to find ways to resolve any ethnic conflict internally, as it poses a great threat to Ethiopia. Other serious threats that also need to be addressed and resolved are the spread of HIV/AIDS, lack of education, jobs, housing and health care, poverty, corruption, and hunger. The only way th at Ethiopia can truly resolve any of these problems is when its leaders promote unity, as it will require for everyone to come together as a nation to combat these problems. Just as historically Ethiopia stood up to colonialism and external threats united, it must now do the same in resolving and defeating the internal strife that is plaguing its development. Ethiopia, a once powerful country that defended itself and maintained its independence, should now use this opportunity to show the world that it can solve its own problems and as the host country of African Unity be a leading example of democracy. This is a very critical time for Ethiopia and the success of this election is monumental. A democratic country with stable government will attract more foreign investment helping the further development of the country and reversing of the brain drain. The Ethiopian people deserve to have true democracy and government that works and fights for its people. EACF believes a free and fair election is a critical first step towards this goal and hopes that each party takes this great responsibility very seriously and that they do their part to ensure that it is free and fair. The future of Ethiopia depends on the outcome of this election and EACF encourages all Ethiopians to fully participate in the process and exercise their democratic rights and duties. It is everyone’s responsibility to work together to bring peace, stability and development back to this beloved and historical country. __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://lists.sn.apc.org/pipermail/pol.ethiopia/attachments/20050312/004f6c25/attachment-0001.html From polethiopia at yahoo.com Thu Mar 17 11:13:33 2005 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Apr 17 18:19:42 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20050317091333.22375.qmail@web53307.mail.yahoo.com> March 16, 2005 Security Council extends UNMEE mandate ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – The United Nations Security Council Monday decided to extend the mandate of the United Nations Mission in Ethiopia and Eritrea (UNMEE) until 15 September 2005. In a resolution adopted unanimously, the Council once again welcomed Ethiopia’s five-point peace proposal, Ethiopia unequivocally expressed its commitment to resolve the dispute with Eritrea through peaceful and only peaceful means. The proposal called for dialogue to resolve the border dispute and normalization of relations. The Council’s resolution expressed, “…disappointment about the continuing refusal of Eritrea to engage with the Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Ethiopia and Eritrea, whose good offices represent a concrete opportunity for both parties to move the peace process forward.” The council “reiterates its full support for the Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Ethiopia and Eritrea, Lloyd Ax worthy, in his efforts to facilitate the implementation of the Algiers Agreements, the decision of the Boundary Commission and normalization of diplomatic relations between the two countries through his good offices, and emphasizes that this appointment does not constitute an alternative mechanism. It also called on both parties to cooperate fully and expeditiously with UNMEE in the implementation of its mandate, to ensure the security of immediately and unconditionally all restrictions on and impediments to the work and to the full and free movement of UNMEE and its staff. 62 project sites selected suitable for floriculture ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – The Minister of Trade and Industry has announced that 62 suitable project sites have been selected in Ethiopia for local and foreign investors willing to engage in floriculture development. Girma Birru made the announcement here yesterday during talks with a floriculture delegation from the Netherlands. Girma said the sites selected for floriculture development are not far from Addis Ababa, have adequate water reserve and suitable weather. Girma said the government is committed to provide support for foreign investors willing to invest in floriculture development in Ethiopia. The Ethiopian Government has attached special attention to the development of floriculture, Girma said. He also said the country should receive technical assistance from countries like the Netherlands, that are advanced in the sector. He told the delegation that foreign companies engaged in floriculture investment in Ethiopia are exempt from tax for three years after the commencement of their projects. One Dutch company has been conducting preliminary study to establish a similar project on 300 hectares near Addis Ababa, he indicated. The government has made preparations to provide efficient air cargo services and to supply the necessary inputs for floriculture investments, he added. Manager of Dutch Rose Growers, Mr., Beelen on his part said the attention the Ethiopian Government has attached to the development of floriculture has attracted the attention of Dutch investors in the field. During the week-long visit, the delegation toured floriculture development sites in Holeta, Wonji, Sululta, Debre Zeit, Koka and other localities. Over 25.6 mln. Voters registered ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – The National Electoral Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) announced that over 25.6 million voters have been registered to cast their votes in the state and national elections scheduled for May, except the Somali State where voting is scheduled to take place in August. Some 1,574 party and independent candidates will contest for seats in the House of peoples’ Representatives (HPR) and 3,669 candidates for state councils. Board Deputy Head Tesfaye Mengesha told ENA yesterday that 25,605,851 voters have registered, of whom 12 million 340,000 are women. Tesfaye said that 9,177,520 and 7,270,722 voters have received their voter IDs in the Oromia and Amhara states respectively. Over 5 million people have also received voter IDs in the Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples State. Meanwhile, the number of voters registered in Tigray, Afar, Benshangul-Gumuz, Gambella, Harari states, Addis Ababa and Dire Dawa Interim administrations has shown a marked increase compared with the previous national elections. Tesfaye said that 37 political parties have fielded their candidates to contest for seats in the HPR and state councils. Some 423 independent candidates have also registered to take part in the election. He said 273 women candidates are running for seats in the HPR. Some 55 of them are independent candidates and the rest party nominated, he added. Similarly, Tesfaye said that 827 women candidates have registered to vie for seats in state councils. Twelve are independents. The number of registered voters during the 1992 E.C. national elections was 20,354,156. Meanwhile, a joint committee drawn from different political parties contesting for seats in the HPR and state councils to create conducive atmosphere in the upcoming elections has been established recently in Bahir Dar town, Western Gojjam and Bahir Dar town election coordinator said. The coordinator Tilahun Degife said yesterday that the joint committee was set up by the Amhara National Democratic Movement (ANDM), Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD) and United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF). He also said that the joint committee consisting of six members has the responsibility such as resolving disagreements among the parties so that the election would be free and fair, organizing campaigning forums, facilitating the use of media, among others. Similarly, education on election campaigns has been provided to contesting candidates in Bahir Dar town constituency, Tilahun said. Meanwhile, Head of Women’s Affairs Bureau with the Tigray State’s government has announced that women candidates in the State constitute 37 per cent of the total candidature for seats in the HPR. Roman Gebre-Selassie told “Abyotawi Democracy”, organ of the EPRDF, that women has also taken 50 per cent of the candidature among the contestants for seats in the states council. The percentage of women candidacy foe membership in the House has grown to 37 per cent now, from only 10.5 per cent during the second national elections, she said. Women candidate who had contested for seats in the state council during the second elections was 28 per cent. Roman has announced activities to raise the percentage of women candidacy to 50 per cent for seats in the woreda councils. In connection with the elections, women forums have been organized by the bureau and the Tigray Women Democratic Association, she said. Activities aimed at boosting women’s political empowerment by increased participation in electing and being elected began a year-and-a-half ago in the state, she indicated. Italy seeks to maintain scientific cooperation with Ethiopia By Yemane Terefe ADDIS ABABA – Italian Ambassador Guido La Tella said that his country is strongly interested in the promotion and progress of geological studies in Ethiopia. He also said the Government of Italy intends to continue supporting high quality scientific cooperation between the two countries particularly in the field of earth science. Speaking at a half-day conference entitled: “Earth Science for Development” organized by Italian and Ethiopian universities (AAU and Makalle at the Italian Cultural Institute yesterday, Ambassador La Tella said that over the past 15 years, the Italian Development Cooperation has given extensive support to scientific research in Ethiopian academic institutions. According to the Ambassador Italy’s support to the development of earth science sector comes in various forms such as training of professors and other staff through the promotion of high level research. Accordingly, various dedicated Italian professors have worked in Ethiopia greatly contributing to the expansion of the sector. Prof. Paolo Billi form Ferrara University, research finding here shown that once gully erosion starts, it cannot be reversed. He indicated that gully erosion could be stopped only if human beings energy supply greatly increases. The researches have been conducted in Axum, Akobo, Dessie Hayk, Awash and Zeway rivers since the last two years. Asked about the objective of the research, the Prof. responded that it was aimed at understanding the relationship between environmental change and human impact to properly address the problem. Dr. Tamiru Alemayehu, AAU Department of Earth Science, on his part said that there is no continuity of fund and research by Ethiopians and Italians. Dr. Tamiru and other scholars suggested the provision of sustainable fund for strengthening joint research activities. Geology students from Italian higher institutes and professionals from the AAU were in attendance at the conference. ================================= Pol.ethiopia March 17,2004 ==================== __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Wed Mar 23 16:06:34 2005 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Apr 17 18:19:42 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20050323140634.20458.qmail@web53305.mail.yahoo.com> March 23, 2005 AU Commissioner calls for harmonized efforts to establish African Standby Force ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – The African Union (AU) and other regional mechanisms should work in a harmonized and coordinated manner to strengthen ongoing efforts to establish the African Standby Force (ASF), AU’s Peace and Security Commissioner, Ambassador Said Djinnit said. Speaking at the opening of a two-day experts’ meeting on the relationship between the AU and the regional mechanisms for conflict prevention, management and resolution, the commissioner said establishment of the standby force would have significant contribution in bringing about sustainable peace and development in the continent. Ambassador Djinnit further said the G8 member countries, the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) and other regional organizations in the continent should fully support the Commission’s efforts to establishment of the African Standby Force (ASF). ASF would hold the responsibility of resolving conflicts that may erupt in the continent, Ambassador Djinnit said. According to the Commissioner, the status of the establishment of the ASF and Military Staff Committee (MSC) at continental level, the memorandum of understanding between AU and Regional Mechanisms, the status of the establishment of the Continental Early Warning System would be major points the meeting will focus on. Participants of the meting will also hold group discussions and exchange views on relevant matters such as capacity building and preparation of the meeting with G8 and other partners. President stresses irrigation dev’t as World Water Day marked ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – President Girma Wolde-Giorgis says that with recurrent drought and insufficient rainfall, enhancing irrigation development activities is decisive to increase food production in the country. The President said that irrigation development schemes are aggressively underway and rainwater harvesting is being widely practiced with a view to ensuring food security. The President was speaking at the celebration of the World Water Day and the launching of the International Decade for Action, “Water for Life” here yesterday. President Girma commended the importance given by the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) to food security, poverty reduction, environmental sustainability and providing sustainable access to safe drinking water. President Girma said that Ethiopia’s Water Sector Development Programme (WSDP) has been designed with a view to addressing challenges in the sector. The President said that the Ethiopian Water Resources Management Policy is formulated based on environmental conservation, integrated water resources management and economic efficiency. President Girma said that the government has taken appropriate steps to harness the country’s relatively big hydropower potential on some of the river basins that makes export to energy deficit countries feasible. Minister of Water Resources Shiferaw Jarso on his part said that the ground work and the necessary enabling environment have been put in place with a view to tackling the challenges in the water sector. The Minister said that a comprehensive and integrated water resources master plan studies have been conducted in six of the major river basins of the country. He said that irrigation has been given more attention in order to ensure food security and enhance the country’s economic development. The Minister then further indicated that over 90,000 hectares and 7,000 hectares are being developed in the Awash Basin and Koga respectively. According to the Minister, studies aimed at developing 200,000 hectares are also in progress. In the hydropower sub-sector, the Minister said Studies are being conducted in different parts of the country. Meanwhile, marking the Day, a women’s volleyball tournament was held here on the premises of the Ministry of Water Resources. The Ethiopian Water Sports Association beat the Ethiopian Grain Trade Enterprize 3-0. Marking the Day with sporting event will enhance the participation of workers in sports activities while at the same time remember the Day as special event, says Association President Zewdu Teferra. Economic advisor with the Ministry Mohammed Abdulwuhab awarded the trophy for the winning squad. Officials of the ministry and workers attended the event. ================================================ Pol.ethiopia March 23,2005 ================================ __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Tue Mar 29 15:57:42 2005 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Apr 17 18:19:43 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20050329135742.16948.qmail@web53308.mail.yahoo.com> March 29, 2005 NEBE launches website, information unit By Dagne Biazen ADDIS ABABA – The National Electoral Board of Ethiopia (NEBE yesterday launched a new website (WWW.electionsethiopia.Org) and a press and public information unit. In the first of a series of press conferences the Board held at its premises, Board Chairman Kemal Bedri said that the website and the press and information unit were launched with a view to making its activities and the whole electoral processes transparent and accountable. He added: |This is part of the NEBE’s efforts to provide the public with all information related to the upcoming elections slated for May 15, 2005.” The website contains information about the organization and operation of the elections the legal framework behind it as well as regular updates about the election process. The website would also to provide information about voter registration, candidates’ appeals and complaints as well as campaigning activities, in Amharic and English. The website was developed with the support of Electoral Reform International Services (ERIS) which is coordinating donor funding for the current election process in Ethiopia. The Press Unit will organize regular press conference session every 15 days while as elections day draws closer, the press conferences will be held as frequently as possible. According to Kemal, a total of 1,845 candidates have been registered to contest for seats in the House of Peoples’ Representatives where women accounted 271. For state councils, 3,662 candidates have been registered of whom 826 are women, he said, and added that 35 parties are taking part in the elections. Kemal further said that a joint political party forum is being set up and its statute is under discussion. The NEBE has also decided that students of higher learning institutions vote in constituencies to be established in the universities, he said, adding that the students would vote for constituencies where they have come from. Kemal also said that the NEBE has arranged training on elections as of today to leaders of students drawn from universities to enable them carry out registration process and conduct the elections. NEBE officials responded to questions raised by local journalists and foreign correspondents. Public hearing demands further discussion on rural land use bill ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – A public hearing on a bill providing for Rural Land Administration and Use has demanded further discussion to enrich the bill with the participation of stakeholders. Speaking at the public hearing held at the House of Peoples’ Representatives yesterday, participants said that the step taken by the government to prepare the bill with a view to ensuring ownership of land by the rural community is commendable. However, the participants said, that the bill should further be developed with farmers’ and pastoralist communities’ comments. They said that as the way of life of farmers and pastoralists greatly differ, the bill should be thoroughly discussed at state level before it is adopted at the federal level. The participants said articles particularly dealing with land distribution, re-distribution and inheritance deserve special caution and attention. Briefing on the overall content of the bill, State Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Prof. Tekalign Mammo said that the primary objective of the bill is to acquire and guarantee land ownership right of the rural community. According to the State Minister, the bill incorporates articles providing for a legitimate land lease, transferring through inheritance, donation or exchange as well as obligation of holders to protect the land. The State Minister said the draft law also includes individual and communal use of rural land, and particularly incorporates detailed regulations on states’ general land administration and use. Difficulties encountered is the implementation of sustainable land use plans at various levels, the continuous degradation of natural resources, the decline in agricultural products and productivity as well as the absence of land use and administration proclamation necessitated the bill, he said. Representatives of state governments’ and a cross section of the society attended the hearing organized by the Rural Development and Pastoralist Affairs Standing Committees of the House. The State Minister and members of the Standing Committees responded to questions raised by the participants. German Ambassador appreciates achievements in building democracy ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – The German Ambassador Dr. Helga Grafin von Strachwitz said that the building of a democratic system witnessed in Ethiopia after the demise of the Derg regime has been steadily strengthening. Ambassador Strachwitz said that achievements observed in Ethiopia in building a democratic order deserve appreciation, according to a publication of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Ambassador expressed belief that the upcoming national elections in Ethiopia would be conducted in a fair and free manner, and urged the public to elect candidates whom they believe would promote their will. The on-going debate between the ruling and opposition parties as well as the campaigns being carried out by all parties using the mass media is indicative of the government’s resolve to make the election fair and free, Ambassador Strachwitz said. Relations between Ethiopia and Germany have been strengthened in all areas, Ambassador Strachwitz said, adding that the two countries have also been working jointly at international forum. According to the Ministry, Germany has been providing capacity building support for technical education and environmental protection. ===================================== Pol.ethiopia March 29,2005 ======================== __________________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Yahoo! Small Business - Try our new resources site! http://smallbusiness.yahoo.com/resources/ From polethiopia at yahoo.com Wed Mar 30 15:18:04 2005 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Apr 17 18:19:43 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20050330131805.6145.qmail@web53305.mail.yahoo.com> March 30, 2005 House endorses terms recommended for inclusion in revised Penal Code ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – The House of Peoples’ Representatives during its regular session yesterday unanimously endorsed the recommendation calling for the inclusion of terms in the revised Penal Code, which was endorsed in June last year. The House also endorsed two other bills. The House had then passed a requisition that the terms recommended for inclusion undergo scrutiny and be made part of the revised Penal Code. Accordingly, the Legal and Administrative as well as the Women’s and Social Affairs Standing Committees have looked again into the Penal Code and made relevant consultations with pertinent professionals to have included draft points of amendment into the Penal Code, which is expected to be enforced as of 9 May this year. According to the Committees, the necessary corrections and adjustments have been made to give the revised Penal Code one last touch. New terms have been included, Articles have been combined or divided according to relevance, and others whose meanings have been found hazy have been clarified. Major alterations have also been made on some Articles in the revised Penal Code. The revised Penal Code, whose draft had undergone thorough discussions by a cross section of the society, is believed to safeguard the rights of citizens entirely. In a related development, the House unanimously endorsed the bill approving the loan agreement signed between the Government and the International Development Association (IDA) for the implementation of preparatory education capacity building project. His agreement is essential to produce the necessary skilled manpower both qualitatively and quantitatively. The agreement is in line with the country’s loan policy, the Budgetary and Finance Affairs Standing Committee of the House said. The House also endorsed with two objections the bill providing for the establishment of the Central Statistics Authority. The bill was deemed necessary in view of the growing demand for information in Ethiopia in particular and in the world in general. Thus the need for the Authority capable of supplying adequate statistical data to meet the growing demand. Prof. Maathai elected AU Council first president ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – Kenyan Prof. Wangari Maathai, the Nobel Laureate of 2004, has been elected by Africa’s Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to serve as the first president of the Interim General Assembly of the Economic, Social and Cultural Council of the African Union (AU-ECOSOCC) here Monday. Prof. Maathai will preside over a Bureau composed of four regional deputies, namely Prof. Maurice Tadadjeu (Central Africa), Farima Karadja (North Africa), Charles Mutasa (South Africa) and Ayodele Aderinwale (West Africa). According to a Communiqué’ issued by the AU, the Interim General Assembly also elected an 18 member Standing Committee to coordinate the work of ECOSOCC, whose composition was based on the principle of gender balance and youth representation. ECOSOCC is a vehicle for building a strong partnership between governments and all segments of African civil society and for achieving the goal of creating a people-centered African community, according to the Communiqué. Elected officials of the AU ECOSOCC were sworn in yesterday at the AU Conference Centre in Addis. EPRDF appeals against CUD’s agitation at places prohibited by law ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – The Ethiopian Peoples Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF) has urged the National Electoral Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) to oblige political parties to stop agitating in the name of election campaigns and at areas prohibited by law. Among the areas outlawed by the electoral law of the land for political campaigns are places of worship, EPRDF said in a statement yesterday. The law bans any political activity, save the kind that provokes social disharmony and discord, at religious institutions, it said. The ban was imposed to enable the faithful to pay their spiritual duty freely and undisturbed as well as in the light of the Constitution, which unequivocally separates religion from politics, it said. This being the truth, however, Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD) has been deploying its members to churches, agitating in jeopardy of social harmony and stability, it said. EPRDF said tangible proof for such illegal activities have been witnessed at St. Gabriel Church in Kebele 15/16 of the Arada Sub-city, where the head is a CUD member who goes to the name Megabe Tibeb Senay Ayele. CUD here has been engaged in throwing fliers whose themes communicate dangerous themes that can lead to social instability, it said. One of the fliers contain the report Megabe Tibeb Senay Ayele had submitted to his party, and this clearly shows the illegal activity CUD has been engaged in, it indicated. It noted that the illegal activities of CUD testifies that both the party and its members have not been ready to participate in the elections legally and honestly, but with spirits of violence and perversions. EPRDF in the statement to NEBE appealed to stop CUD from its illegal moves and take measures that may correct the instigator party. Joint Forum accepts election Code of Ethics ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – The Code of Ethics prepared to ensure the free and fair conduct of the upcoming national elections was accepted yesterday after in-depth discussions were held and amendments made by the Joint Forum formed by all contesting political parties. Composed of eight Articles, the Code of Ethics has been prepared by the National Electoral Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) and foreign experts in the field. The Code of Ethics endorses the right of candidates to impunity, issues related to the election, the Government decision, contenders’ mass media access and use as well as the rules contenders should adhere all through the process of the elections. The Code of Ethics was accepted unanimously by the Joint Forum, which is composed of delegates of EPRDF and all contending parties. The member parties of the Joint Forum are expected to ratify the Code of Ethics this coming Friday. ================================== Pol.ethiopia March 30,2005 ============================ __________________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Yahoo! Small Business - Try our new resources site! http://smallbusiness.yahoo.com/resources/ From mariam929 at yahoo.com Sat Mar 12 20:22:27 2005 From: mariam929 at yahoo.com (Mariam) Date: Wed May 23 11:06:16 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] [Ethiopiawinet] EACF PRESS RELEASE REGARDING THE UPCOMING ELECTION IN ETHIOPIA Message-ID: <20050312182228.624.qmail@web52207.mail.yahoo.com> PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Release Contact: Mariam Fikre Phone: (202) 545-1056 Email: mariam@ethiopianamerican.org Web: http://www.ethiopianamerican.org The Ethiopian American Constituency Foundation (EACF) would like to express its excitement and appreciation of the upcoming election in Ethiopia, and would like to ensure that it is free, fair and truly democratic. EACF would like to remind all parties involved, including the current government, to be responsible in making sure that all people are represented equally and fairly and that all their voices and concerns are heard. Ethiopia, however diverse its population, is one nation that belongs to all equally, and each party needs to keep that in mind and ensure that it remains that way. It is critical that each party understands its responsibility to not only address but also actively work to find ways to resolve any ethnic conflict internally, as it poses a great threat to Ethiopia. Other serious threats that also need to be addressed and resolved are the spread of HIV/AIDS, lack of education, jobs, housing and health care, poverty, corruption, and hunger. The only way th at Ethiopia can truly resolve any of these problems is when its leaders promote unity, as it will require for everyone to come together as a nation to combat these problems. Just as historically Ethiopia stood up to colonialism and external threats united, it must now do the same in resolving and defeating the internal strife that is plaguing its development. Ethiopia, a once powerful country that defended itself and maintained its independence, should now use this opportunity to show the world that it can solve its own problems and as the host country of African Unity be a leading example of democracy. This is a very critical time for Ethiopia and the success of this election is monumental. A democratic country with stable government will attract more foreign investment helping the further development of the country and reversing of the brain drain. The Ethiopian people deserve to have true democracy and government that works and fights for its people. EACF believes a free and fair election is a critical first step towards this goal and hopes that each party takes this great responsibility very seriously and that they do their part to ensure that it is free and fair. The future of Ethiopia depends on the outcome of this election and EACF encourages all Ethiopians to fully participate in the process and exercise their democratic rights and duties. It is everyone’s responsibility to work together to bring peace, stability and development back to this beloved and historical country. __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://lists.sn.apc.org/pipermail/pol.ethiopia/attachments/20050312/004f6c25/attachment-0002.html From polethiopia at yahoo.com Thu Mar 17 11:13:33 2005 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Wed May 23 11:06:16 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20050317091333.22375.qmail@web53307.mail.yahoo.com> March 16, 2005 Security Council extends UNMEE mandate ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – The United Nations Security Council Monday decided to extend the mandate of the United Nations Mission in Ethiopia and Eritrea (UNMEE) until 15 September 2005. In a resolution adopted unanimously, the Council once again welcomed Ethiopia’s five-point peace proposal, Ethiopia unequivocally expressed its commitment to resolve the dispute with Eritrea through peaceful and only peaceful means. The proposal called for dialogue to resolve the border dispute and normalization of relations. The Council’s resolution expressed, “…disappointment about the continuing refusal of Eritrea to engage with the Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Ethiopia and Eritrea, whose good offices represent a concrete opportunity for both parties to move the peace process forward.” The council “reiterates its full support for the Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Ethiopia and Eritrea, Lloyd Ax worthy, in his efforts to facilitate the implementation of the Algiers Agreements, the decision of the Boundary Commission and normalization of diplomatic relations between the two countries through his good offices, and emphasizes that this appointment does not constitute an alternative mechanism. It also called on both parties to cooperate fully and expeditiously with UNMEE in the implementation of its mandate, to ensure the security of immediately and unconditionally all restrictions on and impediments to the work and to the full and free movement of UNMEE and its staff. 62 project sites selected suitable for floriculture ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – The Minister of Trade and Industry has announced that 62 suitable project sites have been selected in Ethiopia for local and foreign investors willing to engage in floriculture development. Girma Birru made the announcement here yesterday during talks with a floriculture delegation from the Netherlands. Girma said the sites selected for floriculture development are not far from Addis Ababa, have adequate water reserve and suitable weather. Girma said the government is committed to provide support for foreign investors willing to invest in floriculture development in Ethiopia. The Ethiopian Government has attached special attention to the development of floriculture, Girma said. He also said the country should receive technical assistance from countries like the Netherlands, that are advanced in the sector. He told the delegation that foreign companies engaged in floriculture investment in Ethiopia are exempt from tax for three years after the commencement of their projects. One Dutch company has been conducting preliminary study to establish a similar project on 300 hectares near Addis Ababa, he indicated. The government has made preparations to provide efficient air cargo services and to supply the necessary inputs for floriculture investments, he added. Manager of Dutch Rose Growers, Mr., Beelen on his part said the attention the Ethiopian Government has attached to the development of floriculture has attracted the attention of Dutch investors in the field. During the week-long visit, the delegation toured floriculture development sites in Holeta, Wonji, Sululta, Debre Zeit, Koka and other localities. Over 25.6 mln. Voters registered ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – The National Electoral Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) announced that over 25.6 million voters have been registered to cast their votes in the state and national elections scheduled for May, except the Somali State where voting is scheduled to take place in August. Some 1,574 party and independent candidates will contest for seats in the House of peoples’ Representatives (HPR) and 3,669 candidates for state councils. Board Deputy Head Tesfaye Mengesha told ENA yesterday that 25,605,851 voters have registered, of whom 12 million 340,000 are women. Tesfaye said that 9,177,520 and 7,270,722 voters have received their voter IDs in the Oromia and Amhara states respectively. Over 5 million people have also received voter IDs in the Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples State. Meanwhile, the number of voters registered in Tigray, Afar, Benshangul-Gumuz, Gambella, Harari states, Addis Ababa and Dire Dawa Interim administrations has shown a marked increase compared with the previous national elections. Tesfaye said that 37 political parties have fielded their candidates to contest for seats in the HPR and state councils. Some 423 independent candidates have also registered to take part in the election. He said 273 women candidates are running for seats in the HPR. Some 55 of them are independent candidates and the rest party nominated, he added. Similarly, Tesfaye said that 827 women candidates have registered to vie for seats in state councils. Twelve are independents. The number of registered voters during the 1992 E.C. national elections was 20,354,156. Meanwhile, a joint committee drawn from different political parties contesting for seats in the HPR and state councils to create conducive atmosphere in the upcoming elections has been established recently in Bahir Dar town, Western Gojjam and Bahir Dar town election coordinator said. The coordinator Tilahun Degife said yesterday that the joint committee was set up by the Amhara National Democratic Movement (ANDM), Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD) and United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF). He also said that the joint committee consisting of six members has the responsibility such as resolving disagreements among the parties so that the election would be free and fair, organizing campaigning forums, facilitating the use of media, among others. Similarly, education on election campaigns has been provided to contesting candidates in Bahir Dar town constituency, Tilahun said. Meanwhile, Head of Women’s Affairs Bureau with the Tigray State’s government has announced that women candidates in the State constitute 37 per cent of the total candidature for seats in the HPR. Roman Gebre-Selassie told “Abyotawi Democracy”, organ of the EPRDF, that women has also taken 50 per cent of the candidature among the contestants for seats in the states council. The percentage of women candidacy foe membership in the House has grown to 37 per cent now, from only 10.5 per cent during the second national elections, she said. Women candidate who had contested for seats in the state council during the second elections was 28 per cent. Roman has announced activities to raise the percentage of women candidacy to 50 per cent for seats in the woreda councils. In connection with the elections, women forums have been organized by the bureau and the Tigray Women Democratic Association, she said. Activities aimed at boosting women’s political empowerment by increased participation in electing and being elected began a year-and-a-half ago in the state, she indicated. Italy seeks to maintain scientific cooperation with Ethiopia By Yemane Terefe ADDIS ABABA – Italian Ambassador Guido La Tella said that his country is strongly interested in the promotion and progress of geological studies in Ethiopia. He also said the Government of Italy intends to continue supporting high quality scientific cooperation between the two countries particularly in the field of earth science. Speaking at a half-day conference entitled: “Earth Science for Development” organized by Italian and Ethiopian universities (AAU and Makalle at the Italian Cultural Institute yesterday, Ambassador La Tella said that over the past 15 years, the Italian Development Cooperation has given extensive support to scientific research in Ethiopian academic institutions. According to the Ambassador Italy’s support to the development of earth science sector comes in various forms such as training of professors and other staff through the promotion of high level research. Accordingly, various dedicated Italian professors have worked in Ethiopia greatly contributing to the expansion of the sector. Prof. Paolo Billi form Ferrara University, research finding here shown that once gully erosion starts, it cannot be reversed. He indicated that gully erosion could be stopped only if human beings energy supply greatly increases. The researches have been conducted in Axum, Akobo, Dessie Hayk, Awash and Zeway rivers since the last two years. Asked about the objective of the research, the Prof. responded that it was aimed at understanding the relationship between environmental change and human impact to properly address the problem. Dr. Tamiru Alemayehu, AAU Department of Earth Science, on his part said that there is no continuity of fund and research by Ethiopians and Italians. Dr. Tamiru and other scholars suggested the provision of sustainable fund for strengthening joint research activities. Geology students from Italian higher institutes and professionals from the AAU were in attendance at the conference. ================================= Pol.ethiopia March 17,2004 ==================== __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Wed Mar 23 16:06:34 2005 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Wed May 23 11:06:16 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20050323140634.20458.qmail@web53305.mail.yahoo.com> March 23, 2005 AU Commissioner calls for harmonized efforts to establish African Standby Force ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – The African Union (AU) and other regional mechanisms should work in a harmonized and coordinated manner to strengthen ongoing efforts to establish the African Standby Force (ASF), AU’s Peace and Security Commissioner, Ambassador Said Djinnit said. Speaking at the opening of a two-day experts’ meeting on the relationship between the AU and the regional mechanisms for conflict prevention, management and resolution, the commissioner said establishment of the standby force would have significant contribution in bringing about sustainable peace and development in the continent. Ambassador Djinnit further said the G8 member countries, the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) and other regional organizations in the continent should fully support the Commission’s efforts to establishment of the African Standby Force (ASF). ASF would hold the responsibility of resolving conflicts that may erupt in the continent, Ambassador Djinnit said. According to the Commissioner, the status of the establishment of the ASF and Military Staff Committee (MSC) at continental level, the memorandum of understanding between AU and Regional Mechanisms, the status of the establishment of the Continental Early Warning System would be major points the meeting will focus on. Participants of the meting will also hold group discussions and exchange views on relevant matters such as capacity building and preparation of the meeting with G8 and other partners. President stresses irrigation dev’t as World Water Day marked ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – President Girma Wolde-Giorgis says that with recurrent drought and insufficient rainfall, enhancing irrigation development activities is decisive to increase food production in the country. The President said that irrigation development schemes are aggressively underway and rainwater harvesting is being widely practiced with a view to ensuring food security. The President was speaking at the celebration of the World Water Day and the launching of the International Decade for Action, “Water for Life” here yesterday. President Girma commended the importance given by the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) to food security, poverty reduction, environmental sustainability and providing sustainable access to safe drinking water. President Girma said that Ethiopia’s Water Sector Development Programme (WSDP) has been designed with a view to addressing challenges in the sector. The President said that the Ethiopian Water Resources Management Policy is formulated based on environmental conservation, integrated water resources management and economic efficiency. President Girma said that the government has taken appropriate steps to harness the country’s relatively big hydropower potential on some of the river basins that makes export to energy deficit countries feasible. Minister of Water Resources Shiferaw Jarso on his part said that the ground work and the necessary enabling environment have been put in place with a view to tackling the challenges in the water sector. The Minister said that a comprehensive and integrated water resources master plan studies have been conducted in six of the major river basins of the country. He said that irrigation has been given more attention in order to ensure food security and enhance the country’s economic development. The Minister then further indicated that over 90,000 hectares and 7,000 hectares are being developed in the Awash Basin and Koga respectively. According to the Minister, studies aimed at developing 200,000 hectares are also in progress. In the hydropower sub-sector, the Minister said Studies are being conducted in different parts of the country. Meanwhile, marking the Day, a women’s volleyball tournament was held here on the premises of the Ministry of Water Resources. The Ethiopian Water Sports Association beat the Ethiopian Grain Trade Enterprize 3-0. Marking the Day with sporting event will enhance the participation of workers in sports activities while at the same time remember the Day as special event, says Association President Zewdu Teferra. Economic advisor with the Ministry Mohammed Abdulwuhab awarded the trophy for the winning squad. Officials of the ministry and workers attended the event. ================================================ Pol.ethiopia March 23,2005 ================================ __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Tue Mar 29 15:57:42 2005 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Wed May 23 11:06:16 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20050329135742.16948.qmail@web53308.mail.yahoo.com> March 29, 2005 NEBE launches website, information unit By Dagne Biazen ADDIS ABABA – The National Electoral Board of Ethiopia (NEBE yesterday launched a new website (WWW.electionsethiopia.Org) and a press and public information unit. In the first of a series of press conferences the Board held at its premises, Board Chairman Kemal Bedri said that the website and the press and information unit were launched with a view to making its activities and the whole electoral processes transparent and accountable. He added: |This is part of the NEBE’s efforts to provide the public with all information related to the upcoming elections slated for May 15, 2005.” The website contains information about the organization and operation of the elections the legal framework behind it as well as regular updates about the election process. The website would also to provide information about voter registration, candidates’ appeals and complaints as well as campaigning activities, in Amharic and English. The website was developed with the support of Electoral Reform International Services (ERIS) which is coordinating donor funding for the current election process in Ethiopia. The Press Unit will organize regular press conference session every 15 days while as elections day draws closer, the press conferences will be held as frequently as possible. According to Kemal, a total of 1,845 candidates have been registered to contest for seats in the House of Peoples’ Representatives where women accounted 271. For state councils, 3,662 candidates have been registered of whom 826 are women, he said, and added that 35 parties are taking part in the elections. Kemal further said that a joint political party forum is being set up and its statute is under discussion. The NEBE has also decided that students of higher learning institutions vote in constituencies to be established in the universities, he said, adding that the students would vote for constituencies where they have come from. Kemal also said that the NEBE has arranged training on elections as of today to leaders of students drawn from universities to enable them carry out registration process and conduct the elections. NEBE officials responded to questions raised by local journalists and foreign correspondents. Public hearing demands further discussion on rural land use bill ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – A public hearing on a bill providing for Rural Land Administration and Use has demanded further discussion to enrich the bill with the participation of stakeholders. Speaking at the public hearing held at the House of Peoples’ Representatives yesterday, participants said that the step taken by the government to prepare the bill with a view to ensuring ownership of land by the rural community is commendable. However, the participants said, that the bill should further be developed with farmers’ and pastoralist communities’ comments. They said that as the way of life of farmers and pastoralists greatly differ, the bill should be thoroughly discussed at state level before it is adopted at the federal level. The participants said articles particularly dealing with land distribution, re-distribution and inheritance deserve special caution and attention. Briefing on the overall content of the bill, State Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Prof. Tekalign Mammo said that the primary objective of the bill is to acquire and guarantee land ownership right of the rural community. According to the State Minister, the bill incorporates articles providing for a legitimate land lease, transferring through inheritance, donation or exchange as well as obligation of holders to protect the land. The State Minister said the draft law also includes individual and communal use of rural land, and particularly incorporates detailed regulations on states’ general land administration and use. Difficulties encountered is the implementation of sustainable land use plans at various levels, the continuous degradation of natural resources, the decline in agricultural products and productivity as well as the absence of land use and administration proclamation necessitated the bill, he said. Representatives of state governments’ and a cross section of the society attended the hearing organized by the Rural Development and Pastoralist Affairs Standing Committees of the House. The State Minister and members of the Standing Committees responded to questions raised by the participants. German Ambassador appreciates achievements in building democracy ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – The German Ambassador Dr. Helga Grafin von Strachwitz said that the building of a democratic system witnessed in Ethiopia after the demise of the Derg regime has been steadily strengthening. Ambassador Strachwitz said that achievements observed in Ethiopia in building a democratic order deserve appreciation, according to a publication of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Ambassador expressed belief that the upcoming national elections in Ethiopia would be conducted in a fair and free manner, and urged the public to elect candidates whom they believe would promote their will. The on-going debate between the ruling and opposition parties as well as the campaigns being carried out by all parties using the mass media is indicative of the government’s resolve to make the election fair and free, Ambassador Strachwitz said. Relations between Ethiopia and Germany have been strengthened in all areas, Ambassador Strachwitz said, adding that the two countries have also been working jointly at international forum. According to the Ministry, Germany has been providing capacity building support for technical education and environmental protection. ===================================== Pol.ethiopia March 29,2005 ======================== __________________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Yahoo! Small Business - Try our new resources site! http://smallbusiness.yahoo.com/resources/ From polethiopia at yahoo.com Wed Mar 30 15:18:04 2005 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Wed May 23 11:06:16 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20050330131805.6145.qmail@web53305.mail.yahoo.com> March 30, 2005 House endorses terms recommended for inclusion in revised Penal Code ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – The House of Peoples’ Representatives during its regular session yesterday unanimously endorsed the recommendation calling for the inclusion of terms in the revised Penal Code, which was endorsed in June last year. The House also endorsed two other bills. The House had then passed a requisition that the terms recommended for inclusion undergo scrutiny and be made part of the revised Penal Code. Accordingly, the Legal and Administrative as well as the Women’s and Social Affairs Standing Committees have looked again into the Penal Code and made relevant consultations with pertinent professionals to have included draft points of amendment into the Penal Code, which is expected to be enforced as of 9 May this year. According to the Committees, the necessary corrections and adjustments have been made to give the revised Penal Code one last touch. New terms have been included, Articles have been combined or divided according to relevance, and others whose meanings have been found hazy have been clarified. Major alterations have also been made on some Articles in the revised Penal Code. The revised Penal Code, whose draft had undergone thorough discussions by a cross section of the society, is believed to safeguard the rights of citizens entirely. In a related development, the House unanimously endorsed the bill approving the loan agreement signed between the Government and the International Development Association (IDA) for the implementation of preparatory education capacity building project. His agreement is essential to produce the necessary skilled manpower both qualitatively and quantitatively. The agreement is in line with the country’s loan policy, the Budgetary and Finance Affairs Standing Committee of the House said. The House also endorsed with two objections the bill providing for the establishment of the Central Statistics Authority. The bill was deemed necessary in view of the growing demand for information in Ethiopia in particular and in the world in general. Thus the need for the Authority capable of supplying adequate statistical data to meet the growing demand. Prof. Maathai elected AU Council first president ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – Kenyan Prof. Wangari Maathai, the Nobel Laureate of 2004, has been elected by Africa’s Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to serve as the first president of the Interim General Assembly of the Economic, Social and Cultural Council of the African Union (AU-ECOSOCC) here Monday. Prof. Maathai will preside over a Bureau composed of four regional deputies, namely Prof. Maurice Tadadjeu (Central Africa), Farima Karadja (North Africa), Charles Mutasa (South Africa) and Ayodele Aderinwale (West Africa). According to a Communiqué’ issued by the AU, the Interim General Assembly also elected an 18 member Standing Committee to coordinate the work of ECOSOCC, whose composition was based on the principle of gender balance and youth representation. ECOSOCC is a vehicle for building a strong partnership between governments and all segments of African civil society and for achieving the goal of creating a people-centered African community, according to the Communiqué. Elected officials of the AU ECOSOCC were sworn in yesterday at the AU Conference Centre in Addis. EPRDF appeals against CUD’s agitation at places prohibited by law ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – The Ethiopian Peoples Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF) has urged the National Electoral Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) to oblige political parties to stop agitating in the name of election campaigns and at areas prohibited by law. Among the areas outlawed by the electoral law of the land for political campaigns are places of worship, EPRDF said in a statement yesterday. The law bans any political activity, save the kind that provokes social disharmony and discord, at religious institutions, it said. The ban was imposed to enable the faithful to pay their spiritual duty freely and undisturbed as well as in the light of the Constitution, which unequivocally separates religion from politics, it said. This being the truth, however, Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD) has been deploying its members to churches, agitating in jeopardy of social harmony and stability, it said. EPRDF said tangible proof for such illegal activities have been witnessed at St. Gabriel Church in Kebele 15/16 of the Arada Sub-city, where the head is a CUD member who goes to the name Megabe Tibeb Senay Ayele. CUD here has been engaged in throwing fliers whose themes communicate dangerous themes that can lead to social instability, it said. One of the fliers contain the report Megabe Tibeb Senay Ayele had submitted to his party, and this clearly shows the illegal activity CUD has been engaged in, it indicated. It noted that the illegal activities of CUD testifies that both the party and its members have not been ready to participate in the elections legally and honestly, but with spirits of violence and perversions. EPRDF in the statement to NEBE appealed to stop CUD from its illegal moves and take measures that may correct the instigator party. Joint Forum accepts election Code of Ethics ADDIS ABABA (ENA) – The Code of Ethics prepared to ensure the free and fair conduct of the upcoming national elections was accepted yesterday after in-depth discussions were held and amendments made by the Joint Forum formed by all contesting political parties. Composed of eight Articles, the Code of Ethics has been prepared by the National Electoral Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) and foreign experts in the field. The Code of Ethics endorses the right of candidates to impunity, issues related to the election, the Government decision, contenders’ mass media access and use as well as the rules contenders should adhere all through the process of the elections. The Code of Ethics was accepted unanimously by the Joint Forum, which is composed of delegates of EPRDF and all contending parties. The member parties of the Joint Forum are expected to ratify the Code of Ethics this coming Friday. ================================== Pol.ethiopia March 30,2005 ============================ __________________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Yahoo! Small Business - Try our new resources site! http://smallbusiness.yahoo.com/resources/