From polethiopia@yahoo.com Tue Oct 4 07:56:45 2005 From: polethiopia@yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue, 4 Oct 2005 00:56:45 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20051004075645.56574.qmail@web53304.mail.yahoo.com> October 01, 2005 CUD top official says CUD, UEDF will devise more effective strategies against strategies against gov't Police say hand grenades found at CUD office Addis Ababa, ENA/WIC - Notwithstanding Thursday’s decision of CUD and UEDF suspending the demonstration they had planned for tomorrow, they would carry on with the struggle through other forthcoming strategies, which would have put greater pressure on the incumbent government and which would highly be effective, says CUD First Deputy Chairperson Bertukan Mideksa. In an interview with Ethiopian Review Website on Thursday, Bertukan said the city government disallowed the planned demonstration demanding unconditional acceptance from the parties of the constitution and officially announced results of the May national elections. She said, the parties had been preparing for the demonstration on big-scale. Now we know the demonstration is not going to take place. This decision of us could well have been said ill-advised, if we had not been prepared for an alternative decision. We will hold a series of discussions shortly to come up with more effective strategies for peaceful struggle. The constitution reserves the rights of citizens to hold demonstrations and the legal procedure to do so is by submitting an application bearing date and venue of any planned mass rally. This CUD and UEDF tried jointly to submit. In the process, we were made to suffer many inconveniences, she said. In the end we were barred from holding the demonstration as they (the authorities) demanded that we accept the constitution and the election results unconditionally. This led to CUD and UEDF to decide to defer the demonstration, she said. The constitution under Article 9/1 stipulates that the constitution is the supreme law of the land and any law whether statutory or traditional; and any decision by a government body or official would not be legally applicable, if they contradict the content of the constitution. Sub-article 3 prohibits any move to take over power through unconstitutional means. In due consideration of the foregoing and other relevant constitutional stipulations, the pertinent body with the Addis Ababa City Government had requested that CUD and UEDF clearly state in written form their unequivocal acceptance of the constitution and the results of the election before they could get permit for the demonstration, which was said to have been organized with the intent to create unrest and violence. It is to be recalled that the Justice and Legal Affairs Bureau stated that the foregoing request was only made to receive the assurances of the parties that the demonstration would not contravene the constitution. Meanwhile, the would-be mayor of Addis Ababa, Dr. Berhanu Nega, and 101 elects of the city administration and members of the CUD have reportedly failed to agree on assignments of individual elects as most of them wanted to secure jobs in the new administration. According to Iftin, a biweekly Amharic newspaper, the recent four-hour long meeting was tense because the would-be mayor declared that those elects who are not given jobs as per their qualifications and experiences, but insist on being given jobs for reasons that they were fired or do not have earnings can right away resign from the council. He said those not assigned in the executive body would attend the regular meetings to be held in two months. The statement, according to the paper, infuriated some members who claimed that they were promised jobs and even one member threatened to resign. Dr. Berhanu however aggressively reiterated his position and similarly threatened to give up his position if the incompetent fill posts as in the past administration. Deliberating on the planned October 2 demonstration called by UEDF and CUD, though the members finally agreed to cool the mood of the “people” in cooperation with the government, some said the residents have prepared machetes, daggers and weapons to be used during the demonstration. They even doubted whether the CUD could prevail on the zealots. But Dr. Berhanu insisted that it is up to the leadership to show their leading role, Iftin reported citing insiders. Meanwhile, the Dire Dawa Police Commission said yesterday that two bombs were found in the premises of the office of CUD. Police reacting from a tip off conducted a search yesterday morning on the premises of the CUD office, where they found two hand grenades, acting Commissioner Commander Yemane Mengistu told ENA. Also found during the search was a written statement showing who’s possession the grenades were as well as when and for what purpose they were kept hidden, he said. Four CUD members suspected of connection with the case were brought to custody as further investigation went on. Police will made public the results of the investigation, he said. Ambassador Huddleston says May 15 election created Ethiopia's first ever multi-party parliament Addis Ababa, ENA - The Charge’d’ Affaires of the U.S. Embassy to Ethiopia, Ambassador Vicki Huddleston, said the May 15, 2005 national elections has given the Ethiopian people their first ever multi-party parliament. Speaking at a media round-table discussion yesterday at the premises of the American Embassy, Ambassador Huddleston said that the recent Ethiopian election should be a win-win situation where the EPRDF has won a majority of parliament seats to form the next government, while the oppositions won 170 seats. Citing the U.S government’s statement of September 16,2005, Ambassador Huddleston said that the elections stand out as a milestone in creating a new, more competitive multi-party political system in one of Africa’s largest and most important countries. “We call on all newly elected members of parliament to take their seats, and serve under Ethiopia’s constitution, ”Charge’d’ Affaires said. “I believe that the Ethiopian people have spoken,” She said, and added “the only way that democracy and the will of the people will prevail is if all elected representatives respect the constitutional process and do their best to represent their constituents in the new multi-party parliament.” Ambassador Huddleston also indicated the desire of the U.S government to work impartially with the elected government and with all parties in a bid to craft a solution to outstanding issues resulting from the election. October 2, 2005 US Congress urges elected opposition MPS to take seats in parliament Addis Ababa, (WIC) - The United States Congress has urged the elected opposition parliament members ''to take their seats because it is essential for the sake of all Ethiopians that the government and the opposition take steps to reduce growing tension''. A letter addressed to Prime Minister Meles Zenawi and the leaders of CUD and UEDF stated that, “The opposition parties had far more opportunity to make their case and the turnout was truly impressive”. It said the people of Ethiopia proclaimed clearly and loudly to the world that they want to live in democracy and peace under the rule of the law. The Congress in its letter insisted that all participants in the electoral process demonstrate patience and restraint and opposition parties should pursue any legitimate arguments concerning contested seats in the High Court. Citizens need to exercise their freedom of speech and freedom of assembly, but any demonstration should attempt to obtain legal sanction and should be carried out peacefully, the letter added. The statement of the Congress said, “The one development that would be intolerable for us and many of our colleagues in Congress is the renewed outbreak of violence and the death of innocent Ethiopians”. EPRDF endorses resolution not to negotiate with opposition parties Addis Ababa, (WIC) - The EPRDF Council today endorsed the resolution earlier passed by the Executive Committee of the Front not to negotiate with opposition parties which do not respect the law and to take appropriate measures to enforce the law whenever necessary. According to the Spokesperson of the Council, it also approved the policy of the committee to hold dialogue on various issues if the parties abide by the law The meeting also evaluated the six-month performance report on the nation-wide election held for the third time in a democratic way and gained credence by the public. It noted that the election was described as free and fair by the Election Observer mission of the African Union and the Carter Center thus ascertaining that it is a big democratic gain. The council also appreciated the decision by the executive committee denouncing the violent intents of the opposition aimed at breaking the law under the pretext of election irregularities and stated the re-run elections held in a free and democratic manner proved EPRDF to be the winner. The council further passed decisions that the new parliament as well as regional councils hold their founding meetings and form a government for the coming five years in accordance with the schedule set by the government. It finally declared that the government, as per the commitment it has made, should further strengthen the good governance and development endeavors so as to ensure the benefits of the public. UEDF, CUD CANCEL STAY-AT-HOME STRIKE, EXPRESS COMMITMENT TO PRESS AHEAD THROUGH DEMOCRATIC, PARLIAMENTARY PROCESS Addis Ababa, (ENA) - Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD) and United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF) have cancelled their stay-at-home strike announced earlier on Saturday and expressed commitment to press ahead through a democratic and parliamentary process. CUD and UEDF announced their decision later on Saturday. Charge d'Affaires with the U.S Embassy in Ethiopia Ambassador Vicky Huddleston said that Prime Minister Meles Zenawi has agreed to talks with the opposition based on their commitment. The joint statement CUD and UEDF issued said, We have been in continual contact with several ambassadors and they have also been in contact with the Prime Minister. As a result of these discussions we have cancelled our stay at home strike announced earlier today. We are committing ourselves to press for our objectives through a democratic and parliamentary process, the statement said. We understand that based on the talks of the international community with Prime Minister Meles and our declaration, the talks will begin as early as tomorrow, (and) we believe this advances the democratic process in a peaceful and constructive manner. In a statement read at the occasion, Ambassadors Huddleston and British Ambassador to Ethiopia Bob Dewar said that based on this commitment of the CUD and UEDF, the Prime Minister has agreed to talks with the opposition beginning as early as Sunday (October 2, 2005). They congratulated the ruling party and the opposition on what they said is a courageous initiative. October 03,2005 Harari State holds founding conference Harar, [WIC] - The founding conference of the Harari State, which began today, has endorsed the nomination of the State's Chief and Deputy Administrators as well as other appointees. The Council has unanimously endorsed the nomination of Murad Abdulhadin as Chief Administrator, and Regassa Kefyalew as Deputy Administrator of the State. Also were appointed Abdulmalik Beker as Speaker, and Muktar Ali as Deputy Speaker. Elias Yahya was elected as President of the State's Supreme Court. The Council next approved the nominations of Bureau heads proposed by the Chief Administrator. Accordingly, the former Chief Administrator of the State, Fuad Ibrahim, was appointed Education and Capacity Building Bureau head, along with other heads. Speaking at the conclusion of the sworn-in ceremony, the new Chief Administrator, Murad Abdulhadin said development works, poverty reduction, good governance and decentralization endeavors will be further consolidated. ======================================== pol.ethiopia Sept.4,2005 ============================== __________________________________ Yahoo! Mail - PC Magazine Editors' Choice 2005 http://mail.yahoo.com From polethiopia@yahoo.com Wed Oct 5 12:50:45 2005 From: polethiopia@yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Wed, 5 Oct 2005 05:50:45 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20051005125045.85999.qmail@web53309.mail.yahoo.com> October 04, 2005 Ethiopian Democratic Union distances itself from UEDF Addis Ababa, (WIC) - The Audit and Control Committee of the Ethiopian Democratic Union (EDU) said on Saturday that it has dissociated itself from the United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF), Iftin, a bi-weekly Amharic reported. According to the statement issued by the Committee, EDU has temporarily severed its relations with the umbrella party, the United Ethiopian Democratic Forces, and would soon elect its leaders, the paper added. The Committee has accused the leader of the EDU, Derje Kebede in particular, of embezzling materials donated for the recent elections. It also blamed UEDF for failing to respond positively to the repeated requests it made to solve the problem of the party. It again stated that none of the candidates of the thirty-year old party was elected in the third national election owing to their preoccupation in corrupt practices and misappropriation of funds. According to the Audit and Control Committee of the party, the leaders have consistently failed to respond to their letters requesting to conduct auditing. They have instead passed the documents of other party and claimed to have lost it, Iftin said quoting their statement. The main office of EDU was therefore sealed off for an indefinite period to salvage the party and until a decision is reached on individuals who have destructive motives, the Committee reportedly said. Javier Solana says only path laid in constitution provides way for democracy in Ethiopia Addis Ababa, October 04, 2005 (WIC) - Javier Solana, EU High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy, on Saturday noted that “only the path laid down in the Constitution, which provides for the convening of a new Council of People’s Representative (HPR) wherein the rights of all are respected, will allow for democracy to be established in Ethiopia in an enduring manner.” According to “Ethio-Index” website, the High Representative has welcomed the meeting that took place on 2 October in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, between the Ethiopian authorities and the Opposition. In a telephone conversation he had on 1 October with Prime Minister Meles Zenawi, the High Representative emphasized the opportunity such a meeting would create in order to help resume dialogue and to offer a perspective whereby the parties would be able to settle the differences that had emerged subsequent to the general elections of 15 May 2005. Solana also urged all Ethiopian parties to continue to exercise restraint. CUD retracts October 3 statement Addis Ababa (ENA) - Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD) says it retracts its statement made on October 3,2005 which makes it seem that Prime Minister Meles Zenawi initiated the dialogue. In a statement it issued on Tuesday the CUD says, We wish to clearly state our commitment to our Saturday October 1, 2005 statement and retract the statement made on October 3, 2005 that the Prime Minister initiated the dialogue, rather it was initiated by the international community. The CUD would like to state that we stand by our joint statement of Saturday October 1, 2005. On the basis of that statement we have committed ourselves to peaceful and legal action and pursue our objectives through the democratic and parliamentary process, the Statement signed by Birtukan Mideksa, First Deputy Chairman of the CUD says. It says, We recognize that the statement of October 1, 2005 was a necessary undertaking by the CUD for the start of the dialogue. CUD made the statement in the presence of U.S. Charge d Affaires Vicky Huddleston, and UK Ambassador to Ethiopia Bob Dewar. Meanwhile, after CUD made the above statement of deletion, the dialogue between the three parties, EPRDF, CUD and UEDF, has commenced on Tuesday. The parties discussed on procedure of the dialogue, which went on in a constructive spirit, the parties affirmed. The parties agreed to continue the dialogue on Wednesday. ===================================== Pol.ethiopia Oct.5,2005 ==================== __________________________________ Yahoo! Mail - PC Magazine Editors' Choice 2005 http://mail.yahoo.com From polethiopia@yahoo.com Mon Oct 10 12:52:17 2005 From: polethiopia@yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Mon, 10 Oct 2005 05:52:17 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20051010125217.11908.qmail@web53315.mail.yahoo.com> October 08, 2005 Opposition parties quit negotiations with the ruling EPRDF Addis Ababa, (WIC) - The Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD) and United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF) have discontinued the recent negotiations blaming the ruling EPRDF for being not willing to include additional agendas to the eight agendas agreed upon. In a joint statement they gave late on Friday evening, the executives of the two parties said the refusal of EPRDF to include additional agendas other than those agreed upon , which they consider a precondition, has forced them to pull out of the discussion. They said the respect for the ''stolen votes'' and the formation of National Unity Transitional Government were the agendas they proposed to be included in the discussion, but rejected by EPRDF. They also said the EPRDF was unwilling to accept agendas on issues of reconsidering the results of the national elections endorsed by the National Electoral Board of Ethiopia and re-organization of legal institutions, including the board. The movement of the defense and police forces in urban areas was also the agendas proposed by opposition parties for discussion but EPRDF rejected it saying it would not negotiate the issue of defense and police, as it is the issue of safeguarding the constitution and national security. Asked as to what measures they would take after quitting the discussion, the executives said they would pursue peaceful struggle. Regarding the joining or boycotting the federal parliament, they said the issue of joining the parliament is yet to be decided .CUD has scheduled to reach decision on Saturday. It was to be recalled that CUD and UEDF said they had agreed with the EPRDF that the discussion was conducted in a constructive spirit, while pointing out they had reached agreement on eight agendas and rules of engagement in the joint statement they gave on October 25, 2005. The agendas in which EPRDF, CUD and UEDF had reached agreement for discussion, include, among others, accountability to the constitution of the country, refraining from violent activities, respect the supremacy of the law and abiding by the constitution. Addis City Administration CUD holds talks Addis Ababa, ENA - The Addis Ababa City Provisional Ad-ministration said it held talks with the Coalition of the Unity and Democracy (CUD) here yesterday. In a statement it sent to ENA yesterday, the Administration said it has finalized preparation to hand over power to the winning party, CUD. However, it said, the CUD has been requested to disclose its position whether it will join in the city and federal parliaments. The Statement said the representatives of CUD said during the discussion that the issue of joining the federal parliament has not yet been decided and that it is under discussion. Accordingly, the two sides reached consensus to discuss the issue as soon as CUD reaches final decisions, as it would be impossible to settle the subject in question for the time being, the statement said. The discussion was held in accordance with the request made by CUD, it said. Five Cabinet Members including City Mayor Arkebe Ekubay and five executive of the CUD Including Dr. Admasu Gebeyehu as well as Deputy Head of the National Electoral Board of Ethiopia Tesfaye Mengesha attended the discussion between the two sides. October 09,2005 ONC says it will never overlooks forces against rights, privileges of Oromo people Addis Ababa, ENA -As there is no the Oromo National Congress (ONC) under Dr. Merera Gudina, the Oromo National Congress will never overlook those individuals and groups who promote their benefits at the expense of the rights and privileges of the Oromo people, ONC Provisional Secretary said. Bona Tadesse told ENA late on Saturday that the central committee of the congress said that there is no any representative of the ONC at the United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF) during its meeting held on September 25, 2005. Some 38 of the 39 members of the ONC who won the election will join the parliament due to be formed next Monday. Bona said though, the ONC had previously announced that Dr. Merera Gudina would not represent the congress on any forum, he had taken part in the discussion held recently between EPRDF, CUD and EPRDF. The congress has been working by designing its own strategy like other political parties in the country, the Provisional Secretary said. He said ONC will form unity with other Oromo organizations, but never with other forces were oppressing the Oromo people. Oromia State council concluded, elects members of Federation council Adama, - The founding conference of the Oromia State council was concluded after electing members of the Federation council and establishing various committees. The founding conference concluded on Saturday has elected President and vice President of the State Council as well as 19 members of the Federation council. The conference has also decided with majority votes to lift immunity of members the Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD), who refused to join the newly established council until the next conference. It was also indicated that only six of the 33 CUD members who won the May 15 election joined the State Council so far. Moreover, the assembly has unanimously approved the agenda forwarded by Speaker of the State Council, Dr. Mohammed Hassen for the establishment of six standing committees. Accordingly, the State Council will have administration and security, Industry and town development, budget and finance, women and public organization as well as social affairs standing committees. Some 10 representatives of opposition political parties have been included in the committees. The Speaker said establishment of the standing committees is needed for the realization of government policies with the participation of the public. Majority MPs registered for inaugural conference Addis Ababa, (WIC)- Registration of MPs who would attend the inaugural conference of the House of Peoples Representatives has reportedly been underway up until today. According to the Information and Public Relations Department of the HPR, 44 members of the UEDF, including the leaders Dr. Beyene Petros and Dr. Merea Gudaina, and six CUD members were registered. Also were registered 10 members of the Oromo Federalist Democratic Movement, it said. It is to be recalled that the ruling party EPRDF has won 327 seats in the HPR, while the CUD secured 109 seats and UEDF 52. The Somali People Democratic Party won 24 seats and OFDM 11 seats. October 10,2005 HPR re-elects Meles Zenawi as Prime Minister Addis Ababa, (WIC)-The inaugural conference of the House of Peoples Representatives (HPR), which began this morning, has re-elected Meles Zenawi as Prime Minister for the coming five years. The HPR also elected Teshome Toga as Speaker and Shitaye Minale Deputy Speaker. The House will reconvene its session tomorrow morning, it was learnt. According to the latest statistics obtained from the HPR, 44 members of United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF) and six members of Coalition for Unity and Democracy as well as the winning party, EPRDF, attended the opening session. The inaugural session was held in the presence of foreign dignitaries, religious leaders and other invited guests. Meanwhile, the founding conference of the Addis Ababa Administration was not convened as scheduled today as members of the winning party, CUD, failed to show up. The National Electoral Board of Ethiopia had called for the convening of the first session this morning, it was learnt. ======================================= Polethiopia Oct. 10,2005 =============================== __________________________________ Yahoo! Music Unlimited Access over 1 million songs. Try it free. http://music.yahoo.com/unlimited/ From polethiopia@yahoo.com Fri Oct 14 06:49:41 2005 From: polethiopia@yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Thu, 13 Oct 2005 23:49:41 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20051014064942.3896.qmail@web53310.mail.yahoo.com> October 11, 2005 HPR revokes immunity of MPs, endorses appointment of cabinet members Addis Ababa (WIC)- The House of Peoples’ Representatives (HPR) today revoked the immunity of MPs who did not take up their seats at the parliament and boycotted the founding conference of the Addis Ababa administration, and approved a new cabinet of ministers proposed by the Prime Minister. The House was told that the elect MPs who boycotted the parliament and the founding conference of the Addis Ababa administration have been openly advocating and working to overthrow the government. As this stands against the constitution revoking their immunity would thus protect life and ensure stability, Meles said. Following a lengthy debate, the HPR finally decided to revoke their immunity and gave mandate to the existing provisional administration of the Addis Ababa administration to continue administering the city as the wining party, CUD, has failed to take over its responsibilities. Earlier, the House of Peoples’ Representatives endorsed the appointment of a new cabinet comprising 20 members. The appointment of the ministers was approved by a majority vote after the Prime Minister submitted the list of the candidates to the House. Accordingly, the following were appointed by the HPR. 1.Addisu Legesse.......……………….Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development 2.Tefera Walwa.........……………….Minister of Capacity Building 3.Dr. Sintayehu Woldemikael..... Minister of Education 4.Girma Biru.......……………......….Minister of Trade and Industry 5.Junedi Sado.......…………….…....Minister of Transport and Communications 6.Dr. Kasu Ilala....……………..….. .Minister of Works and Urban Development 7.Sufian Ahmed.....………………....Minister Finance and Economic Development 8.Melaku Fenta..……………..……....Minister of Revenue 9. Siraj Fegeta........……………...... Minister of Federal Affairs 10. Dr.Tewodros Adhanom……..…Minister of Health 11. Assefa Keseto..………….….......Minister of Justice 12. Kuma Demekesa.…………….....Minister of Defense 13. Seyoum Mesfin..…………….......Minister of Foreign Affairs 14. Berhan Hailu.....……………...... Minister of Information 15. Asefaw Dingam...………………..Minister of Water Resources 16. Aster Mamo.....…………........ Minister of Youth and Sports 17. Hirut Dilebo....……………….....Minister of Women’s Affairs 18. Mahmud Dirir.……………...... .Minister of Culture and Tourism 19. Alemayehu Tegenu……….....Minister Mines and Energy 20. Hassen Abdella...…………….... Minister of Labor and Social Affairs. 21. Shiferaw Jarsso................. Minister without portfolio and Party chair In a related development, Prime Minister Meles Zenawi has also informed the HPR about the appointment of the following State Ministers. 1- State Ministers of Capacity Building Fikru Desalegn Belete Negeeso 2- State Ministers of Education Dr. Adhana Haile Wondewosen Kiflu Fuad Ibrahim 3- State Ministers of Trade and Industry Tadesse Haile Mohammed Tussa 4- State Ministers of Agriculture and Rural Development Dr. Abera Deressa Ahmed Nasir Yacob Yana 5- State Minister of Transport and Communications Getachew Mengiste 6- State Minister of Works and Urban Development Arkeb Equbay 7- State Ministers of Finance and Economic Development Mekonnen Manyazewal Ambassador Brehanu Kebede Mamo Getu 8- State Minister of Revenue Tezera Wodadjo 9- State Minister of Federal Affairs Maeregu Hailemariam 10- State Minister of Health Dr. Kebede Worku 11- State Ministers of Justice Dr. Hashim Tofik Simegn Wubie 12- State Ministers of Defense General Haile Tilahun Sultan Mohammed Kasahun Dendir 13- State Ministers of Foreign Affairs Dr. Tekeda Alemu Nega Tsegaye 14- State Minister of Information Tesema Fotee 15- State Minister of Water Resources Adugna Jebessa 16- State Minister of Youth and Sports Abdissa Yadeta 17- ,State Minister of Women’s Affairs Uboh Mohammed Hussein 18- State Ministers of Culture and Tourism Tadelech Dalecha Mohamed Ge’as 19- State Minister of Mines and Energy Sinkenesh Ijigu 20- State Ministers of Labor and Social Affairs Zenebu Tadesse Mohammed Maadin Ali Authority transfers five government owned enterprises to private holdings Addis Ababa, October 11,2005 (WIC) - The Privatization and Public Enterprise Supervising Authority disclosed that it has transferred five government owned enterprises to private holdings in various ways. At a handing over ceremony of the Gulele Garment factory yesterday the Authority stated that it is transferring government owned enterprises through management contract, joint venture and selling as well as returning them to their previous owners. Accordingly, the Gulele Garment factory and Mojo Tannery were sold, while the Nifas Silk yarn factory was returned to the owner. The Ethiopian Tannery was given in management contract, while the Dire Dawa Cement factory was transferred to a joint venture. The Gulele Garment factory was reportedly sold for 1.9 million birr to a private company. ================================ Pol.ethiopia Oct. 14,2005 ======================== __________________________________ Yahoo! Mail - PC Magazine Editors' Choice 2005 http://mail.yahoo.com From abelay2003@yahoo.com Mon Oct 10 16:51:35 2005 From: abelay2003@yahoo.com (Alem Belay) Date: Mon, 10 Oct 2005 09:51:35 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] Re: Pol.ethiopia digest, Vol 1 #1177 - 4 msgs In-Reply-To: <20051010130301.26783.10744.Mailman@sangonet1> Message-ID: <20051010165136.27070.qmail@web30813.mail.mud.yahoo.com> --0-466349834-1128963095=:26804 Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1 Content-Transfer-Encoding: 8bit Hello, A lot of discussion has been going on regarding the newly changed rules in the Ethiopian Parliament. However, all these discussions seem to be taking place in the absence of the actual rules for reference... old or new. Could someone be kind and send both rules so that things can be clarified, please? Thank you, Alem pol.ethiopia-request@lists.sn.apc.org wrote: Send Pol.ethiopia mailing list submissions to pol.ethiopia@lists.sn.apc.org To subscribe or unsubscribe via the World Wide Web, visit http://lists.sn.apc.org/mailman/listinfo/pol.ethiopia or, via email, send a message with subject or body 'help' to pol.ethiopia-request@lists.sn.apc.org You can reach the person managing the list at pol.ethiopia-admin@lists.sn.apc.org When replying, please edit your Subject line so it is more specific than "Re: Contents of Pol.ethiopia digest..." Today's Topics: 1. News Items (Political Ethiopia) 2. News Items (Political Ethiopia) 3. News Items (Political Ethiopia) 4. News Items (Political Ethiopia) --__--__-- Message: 1 Date: Fri, 30 Sep 2005 05:50:21 -0700 (PDT) From: Political Ethiopia To: pol.ethiopia@lists.sn.apc.org Cc: scem@haven.eyrie.org Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items September 30, 2005 UEDF, CUD say Sunday's demonstration postponed for another time Addis Ababa, (ENA) - The United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF) and the Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD) announced on Thursday that they have postponed for unspecified time the demonstration they had scheduled for this Sunday. At a joint press conference they gave on Thursday, executive members of the CUD and UEDF pointed out that the political tension has mounted high and they have decided to postpone the October 2 demonstration saying the government and EPRDF have not allowed them to do so. The executive members said they have not been able to gather their supporters from various regional states, and added that the government demanded them to present a guarantee that they would hold the demonstration in the spirit of the Constitution and accepting the results of the election. The parties said EPRDF and the government have unlawfully denied their legal rights and urged the public to await for another round of call which, they said, they would make in the future. They said they would announce their alternative options other than the demonstration for the public. The parties also said they would hold consultations and issue statements addressing their members and supporters on October 3, 2005 concerning the demonstration and other related matters. Justice and Legal Affairs Head with the Addis Ababa City Administration, Woldetensae Woldemelak said the parties were asked to provide guarantee to abide by Article 9 of the Constitution. However, he added, the parties have not responded to the demand. The Administration has made the demand based on various newspaper reports suggesting that the demonstration may not be peaceful and with a view to making sure that it would not be against the Constitutional system. Meles holds talks with Secretary General of World Council of Churches Addis Ababa, (ENA) - Prime Minister Meles Zenawi held talks with Secretary General of the World Council of Churches Dr. Samuel Kobi here on Wednesday. Prime Minister Meles Zenawi on the occasion expressed that he felt honored to confer with the delegation led by Dr. Kobi. Prime Minister Meles briefed the delegation about current regional issues as well as about the recently held national elections in Ethiopia. Dr. Kobi on his part expressed his appreciation to Prime Minister Meles for having been playing significant roles for Africa. Dr. Kobi appreciated Meles for his significant roles in the Sudan peace process through IGAD as well as in his efforts as one of the Commissioners of the Commission for Africa to alleviate poverty in Africa. Dr. Kobi told journalists that he took it upon himself to visit Ethiopia to get a first-hand knowledge and experience of Ethiopia, the only African country as founding member of the World Council of Churches. He said during his visit he have seen a wide-range of development activities being carried out in the country. Commenting on election-related issues, Dr. Kobi said the oppositions boycotting parliament might lead the country to clashes and indicated the need for the government and religious institutions to make employ all options to prevent this looming danger. Dr. Kobi said he was informed by Prime Minister Meles that the government had held discussions with the oppositions and will carry on with its efforts to safeguard the constitution and the peace and security of citizens. Dr. Kobi pledged that the World Council of Churches will do everything possible to help diffuse tension. EOC Holy Synod deplores attempted violence at Demera celebration Addis Ababa, ENA - Ethiopian Orthodox Church (EOC) has strongly denounced the attempted violence amidst Demera celebrations on September 26, dubbing the act as un-religious and unethical. Office of EOC's Holy Synod, in a statement it gave on Wednesday in connection with the attempted violence at the Meskel Square, said the violence was targetted against all Christians. The attempted violence came about to the vexation of the Church and such an act could not go without tarnishing Ethiopia's good image in this age-long and unique religious tradition of the Church, the statement said. The annual celebration is Ethiopia's unique tradition acclaimed worldwide, but which, along with the people of the country known for their strong sense of descipline, is exposed to redicule due to such blatant acts committed by ndividuals taken by wickedness, the statement said. The Church advised the faithful to maintain their religious tradition and laws, to stand firm for peace and to keep from sacrelige. It said, the attempted violence was orchestrated in a bid to advance hidden agenda by making use of religion as a pretext. It said all citizens should recognize this and keep from involvement in such acts. It said the Church deplores all those who, in their bid to solicit the Church's partisanship for themselves, so wrongly and deliberately paints it as partisan. This it said should be known by all Ethiopians living inside or outside the country. It urged the government to discharge its responsibility of preventing any such acts in the Church's Holy Days. The Patriarch His Holiness Abune Paulos on his part said he lamented what he saw and heard - an act of sacrelige which has never been encountered in the country. He said the act was targetted against the faithful, and it will be the faithful themselves who will remonstrate against such evil. ================================== Pol.ethiopia Sep.30,2005 ========================== __________________________________ Yahoo! Mail - PC Magazine Editors' Choice 2005 http://mail.yahoo.com --__--__-- Message: 2 Date: Tue, 4 Oct 2005 00:56:45 -0700 (PDT) From: Political Ethiopia To: pol.ethiopia@lists.sn.apc.org Cc: scem@haven.eyrie.org Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items October 01, 2005 CUD top official says CUD, UEDF will devise more effective strategies against strategies against gov't Police say hand grenades found at CUD office Addis Ababa, ENA/WIC - Notwithstanding Thursday’s decision of CUD and UEDF suspending the demonstration they had planned for tomorrow, they would carry on with the struggle through other forthcoming strategies, which would have put greater pressure on the incumbent government and which would highly be effective, says CUD First Deputy Chairperson Bertukan Mideksa. In an interview with Ethiopian Review Website on Thursday, Bertukan said the city government disallowed the planned demonstration demanding unconditional acceptance from the parties of the constitution and officially announced results of the May national elections. She said, the parties had been preparing for the demonstration on big-scale. Now we know the demonstration is not going to take place. This decision of us could well have been said ill-advised, if we had not been prepared for an alternative decision. We will hold a series of discussions shortly to come up with more effective strategies for peaceful struggle. The constitution reserves the rights of citizens to hold demonstrations and the legal procedure to do so is by submitting an application bearing date and venue of any planned mass rally. This CUD and UEDF tried jointly to submit. In the process, we were made to suffer many inconveniences, she said. In the end we were barred from holding the demonstration as they (the authorities) demanded that we accept the constitution and the election results unconditionally. This led to CUD and UEDF to decide to defer the demonstration, she said. The constitution under Article 9/1 stipulates that the constitution is the supreme law of the land and any law whether statutory or traditional; and any decision by a government body or official would not be legally applicable, if they contradict the content of the constitution. Sub-article 3 prohibits any move to take over power through unconstitutional means. In due consideration of the foregoing and other relevant constitutional stipulations, the pertinent body with the Addis Ababa City Government had requested that CUD and UEDF clearly state in written form their unequivocal acceptance of the constitution and the results of the election before they could get permit for the demonstration, which was said to have been organized with the intent to create unrest and violence. It is to be recalled that the Justice and Legal Affairs Bureau stated that the foregoing request was only made to receive the assurances of the parties that the demonstration would not contravene the constitution. Meanwhile, the would-be mayor of Addis Ababa, Dr. Berhanu Nega, and 101 elects of the city administration and members of the CUD have reportedly failed to agree on assignments of individual elects as most of them wanted to secure jobs in the new administration. According to Iftin, a biweekly Amharic newspaper, the recent four-hour long meeting was tense because the would-be mayor declared that those elects who are not given jobs as per their qualifications and experiences, but insist on being given jobs for reasons that they were fired or do not have earnings can right away resign from the council. He said those not assigned in the executive body would attend the regular meetings to be held in two months. The statement, according to the paper, infuriated some members who claimed that they were promised jobs and even one member threatened to resign. Dr. Berhanu however aggressively reiterated his position and similarly threatened to give up his position if the incompetent fill posts as in the past administration. Deliberating on the planned October 2 demonstration called by UEDF and CUD, though the members finally agreed to cool the mood of the “people” in cooperation with the government, some said the residents have prepared machetes, daggers and weapons to be used during the demonstration. They even doubted whether the CUD could prevail on the zealots. But Dr. Berhanu insisted that it is up to the leadership to show their leading role, Iftin reported citing insiders. Meanwhile, the Dire Dawa Police Commission said yesterday that two bombs were found in the premises of the office of CUD. Police reacting from a tip off conducted a search yesterday morning on the premises of the CUD office, where they found two hand grenades, acting Commissioner Commander Yemane Mengistu told ENA. Also found during the search was a written statement showing who’s possession the grenades were as well as when and for what purpose they were kept hidden, he said. Four CUD members suspected of connection with the case were brought to custody as further investigation went on. Police will made public the results of the investigation, he said. Ambassador Huddleston says May 15 election created Ethiopia's first ever multi-party parliament Addis Ababa, ENA - The Charge’d’ Affaires of the U.S. Embassy to Ethiopia, Ambassador Vicki Huddleston, said the May 15, 2005 national elections has given the Ethiopian people their first ever multi-party parliament. Speaking at a media round-table discussion yesterday at the premises of the American Embassy, Ambassador Huddleston said that the recent Ethiopian election should be a win-win situation where the EPRDF has won a majority of parliament seats to form the next government, while the oppositions won 170 seats. Citing the U.S government’s statement of September 16,2005, Ambassador Huddleston said that the elections stand out as a milestone in creating a new, more competitive multi-party political system in one of Africa’s largest and most important countries. “We call on all newly elected members of parliament to take their seats, and serve under Ethiopia’s constitution, ”Charge’d’ Affaires said. “I believe that the Ethiopian people have spoken,” She said, and added “the only way that democracy and the will of the people will prevail is if all elected representatives respect the constitutional process and do their best to represent their constituents in the new multi-party parliament.” Ambassador Huddleston also indicated the desire of the U.S government to work impartially with the elected government and with all parties in a bid to craft a solution to outstanding issues resulting from the election. October 2, 2005 US Congress urges elected opposition MPS to take seats in parliament Addis Ababa, (WIC) - The United States Congress has urged the elected opposition parliament members ''to take their seats because it is essential for the sake of all Ethiopians that the government and the opposition take steps to reduce growing tension''. A letter addressed to Prime Minister Meles Zenawi and the leaders of CUD and UEDF stated that, “The opposition parties had far more opportunity to make their case and the turnout was truly impressive”. It said the people of Ethiopia proclaimed clearly and loudly to the world that they want to live in democracy and peace under the rule of the law. The Congress in its letter insisted that all participants in the electoral process demonstrate patience and restraint and opposition parties should pursue any legitimate arguments concerning contested seats in the High Court. Citizens need to exercise their freedom of speech and freedom of assembly, but any demonstration should attempt to obtain legal sanction and should be carried out peacefully, the letter added. The statement of the Congress said, “The one development that would be intolerable for us and many of our colleagues in Congress is the renewed outbreak of violence and the death of innocent Ethiopians”. EPRDF endorses resolution not to negotiate with opposition parties Addis Ababa, (WIC) - The EPRDF Council today endorsed the resolution earlier passed by the Executive Committee of the Front not to negotiate with opposition parties which do not respect the law and to take appropriate measures to enforce the law whenever necessary. According to the Spokesperson of the Council, it also approved the policy of the committee to hold dialogue on various issues if the parties abide by the law The meeting also evaluated the six-month performance report on the nation-wide election held for the third time in a democratic way and gained credence by the public. It noted that the election was described as free and fair by the Election Observer mission of the African Union and the Carter Center thus ascertaining that it is a big democratic gain. The council also appreciated the decision by the executive committee denouncing the violent intents of the opposition aimed at breaking the law under the pretext of election irregularities and stated the re-run elections held in a free and democratic manner proved EPRDF to be the winner. The council further passed decisions that the new parliament as well as regional councils hold their founding meetings and form a government for the coming five years in accordance with the schedule set by the government. It finally declared that the government, as per the commitment it has made, should further strengthen the good governance and development endeavors so as to ensure the benefits of the public. UEDF, CUD CANCEL STAY-AT-HOME STRIKE, EXPRESS COMMITMENT TO PRESS AHEAD THROUGH DEMOCRATIC, PARLIAMENTARY PROCESS Addis Ababa, (ENA) - Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD) and United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF) have cancelled their stay-at-home strike announced earlier on Saturday and expressed commitment to press ahead through a democratic and parliamentary process. CUD and UEDF announced their decision later on Saturday. Charge d'Affaires with the U.S Embassy in Ethiopia Ambassador Vicky Huddleston said that Prime Minister Meles Zenawi has agreed to talks with the opposition based on their commitment. The joint statement CUD and UEDF issued said, We have been in continual contact with several ambassadors and they have also been in contact with the Prime Minister. As a result of these discussions we have cancelled our stay at home strike announced earlier today. We are committing ourselves to press for our objectives through a democratic and parliamentary process, the statement said. We understand that based on the talks of the international community with Prime Minister Meles and our declaration, the talks will begin as early as tomorrow, (and) we believe this advances the democratic process in a peaceful and constructive manner. In a statement read at the occasion, Ambassadors Huddleston and British Ambassador to Ethiopia Bob Dewar said that based on this commitment of the CUD and UEDF, the Prime Minister has agreed to talks with the opposition beginning as early as Sunday (October 2, 2005). They congratulated the ruling party and the opposition on what they said is a courageous initiative. October 03,2005 Harari State holds founding conference Harar, [WIC] - The founding conference of the Harari State, which began today, has endorsed the nomination of the State's Chief and Deputy Administrators as well as other appointees. The Council has unanimously endorsed the nomination of Murad Abdulhadin as Chief Administrator, and Regassa Kefyalew as Deputy Administrator of the State. Also were appointed Abdulmalik Beker as Speaker, and Muktar Ali as Deputy Speaker. Elias Yahya was elected as President of the State's Supreme Court. The Council next approved the nominations of Bureau heads proposed by the Chief Administrator. Accordingly, the former Chief Administrator of the State, Fuad Ibrahim, was appointed Education and Capacity Building Bureau head, along with other heads. Speaking at the conclusion of the sworn-in ceremony, the new Chief Administrator, Murad Abdulhadin said development works, poverty reduction, good governance and decentralization endeavors will be further consolidated. ======================================== pol.ethiopia Sept.4,2005 ============================== __________________________________ Yahoo! Mail - PC Magazine Editors' Choice 2005 http://mail.yahoo.com --__--__-- Message: 3 Date: Wed, 5 Oct 2005 05:50:45 -0700 (PDT) From: Political Ethiopia To: pol.ethiopia@lists.sn.apc.org Cc: SCEM@haven.eyrie.org Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items October 04, 2005 Ethiopian Democratic Union distances itself from UEDF Addis Ababa, (WIC) - The Audit and Control Committee of the Ethiopian Democratic Union (EDU) said on Saturday that it has dissociated itself from the United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF), Iftin, a bi-weekly Amharic reported. According to the statement issued by the Committee, EDU has temporarily severed its relations with the umbrella party, the United Ethiopian Democratic Forces, and would soon elect its leaders, the paper added. The Committee has accused the leader of the EDU, Derje Kebede in particular, of embezzling materials donated for the recent elections. It also blamed UEDF for failing to respond positively to the repeated requests it made to solve the problem of the party. It again stated that none of the candidates of the thirty-year old party was elected in the third national election owing to their preoccupation in corrupt practices and misappropriation of funds. According to the Audit and Control Committee of the party, the leaders have consistently failed to respond to their letters requesting to conduct auditing. They have instead passed the documents of other party and === message truncated === --------------------------------- Yahoo! Music Unlimited - Access over 1 million songs. Try it free. --0-466349834-1128963095=:26804 Content-Type: text/html; charset=iso-8859-1 Content-Transfer-Encoding: 8bit
Hello,
 
A lot of discussion has been going on regarding the newly changed rules in the Ethiopian Parliament.  However, all these discussions seem to be taking place in the absence of the actual rules for reference... old or new.
 
Could someone be kind and send both rules so that things can be clarified, please?
 
Thank you,
 
Alem

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Today's Topics:

1. News Items (Political Ethiopia)
2. News Items (Political Ethiopia)
3. News Items (Political Ethiopia)
4. News Items (Political Ethiopia)

--__--__--

Message: 1
Date: Fri, 30 Sep 2005 05:50:21 -0700 (PDT)
From: Political Ethiopia
To: pol.ethiopia@lists.sn.apc.org
Cc: scem@haven.eyrie.org
Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items

September 30, 2005


UEDF, CUD say Sunday's demonstration postponed for
another time

Addis Ababa, (ENA) - The United Ethiopian Democratic
Forces (UEDF) and the Coalition for Unity and
Democracy (CUD) announced on Thursday that they have
postponed for unspecified time the demonstration they
had scheduled for this Sunday.
At a joint press conference they gave on Thursday,
executive members of the CUD and UEDF pointed out that
the political tension has mounted high and they have
decided to postpone the October 2 demonstration saying
the government and EPRDF have not allowed them to do
so.

The executive members said they have not been able to
gather their supporters from various regional states,
and added that the government demanded them to present
a guarantee that they would hold the demonstration in
the spirit of the Constitution and accepting the
results of the election.

The parties said EPRDF and the government have
unlawfully denied their legal rights and urged the
public to await for another round of call which, they
said, they would make in the future.

They said they would announce their alternative
options other than the demonstration for the public.

The parties also said they would hold consultations
and issue statements addressing their members and
supporters on October 3, 2005 concerning the
demonstration and other related matters.

Justice and Legal Affairs Head with the Addis Ababa
City Administration, Woldetensae Woldemelak said the
parties were asked to provide guarantee to abide by
Article 9 of the Constitution.

However, he added, the parties have not responded to
the demand.

The Administration has made the demand based on
various newspaper reports suggesting that the
demonstration may not be peaceful and with a view to
making sure that it would not be against the
Constitutional system.



Meles holds talks with Secretary General of World
Council of Churches
Addis Ababa, (ENA) - Prime Minister Meles Zenawi held
talks with Secretary General of the World Council of
Churches Dr. Samuel Kobi here on Wednesday. Prime
Minister Meles Zenawi on the occasion expressed that
he felt honored to confer with the delegation led by
Dr. Kobi.

Prime Minister Meles briefed the delegation about
current regional issues as well as about the recently
held national elections in Ethiopia.

Dr. Kobi on his part expressed his appreciation to
Prime Minister Meles for having been playing
significant roles for Africa.

Dr. Kobi appreciated Meles for his significant roles
in the Sudan peace process through IGAD as well as in
his efforts as one of the Commissioners of the
Commission for Africa to alleviate poverty in Africa.

Dr. Kobi told journalists that he took it upon himself
to visit Ethiopia to get a first-hand knowledge and
experience of Ethiopia, the only African country as
founding member of the World Council of Churches.

He said during his visit he have seen a wide-range of
development activities being carried out in the
country.

Commenting on election-related issues, Dr. Kobi said
the oppositions boycotting parliament might lead the
country to clashes and indicated the need for the
government and religious institutions to make employ
all options to prevent this looming danger.

Dr. Kobi said he was informed by Prime Minister Meles
that the government had held discussions with the
oppositions and will carry on with its efforts to
safeguard the constitution and the peace and security
of citizens.

Dr. Kobi pledged that the World Council of Churches
will do everything possible to help diffuse tension.


EOC Holy Synod deplores attempted violence at Demera
celebration
Addis Ababa, ENA - Ethiopian Orthodox Church (EOC) has
strongly denounced the attempted violence amidst
Demera celebrations on September 26, dubbing the act
as un-religious and unethical.
Office of EOC's Holy Synod, in a statement it gave on
Wednesday in connection with the attempted violence at
the Meskel Square, said the violence was targetted
against all Christians.
The attempted violence came about to the vexation of
the Church and such an act could not go without
tarnishing Ethiopia's good image in this age-long and
unique religious tradition of the Church, the
statement said.
The annual celebration is Ethiopia's unique tradition
acclaimed worldwide, but which, along with the people
of the country known for their strong sense of
descipline, is exposed to redicule due to such blatant
acts committed by ndividuals taken by wickedness, the
statement said.
The Church advis ed the faithful to maintain their
religious tradition and laws, to stand firm for peace
and to keep from sacrelige.
It said, the attempted violence was orchestrated in a
bid to advance hidden agenda by making use of religion
as a pretext. It said all citizens should recognize
this and keep from involvement in such acts.
It said the Church deplores all those who, in their
bid to solicit the Church's partisanship for
themselves, so wrongly and deliberately paints it as
partisan. This it said should be known by all
Ethiopians living inside or outside the country.

It urged the government to discharge its
responsibility of preventing any such acts in the
Church's Holy Days.
The Patriarch His Holiness Abune Paulos on his part
said he lamented what he saw and heard - an act of
sacrelige which has never been encountered in the
country.

He said the act was targetted against the faithful,
and it will be the faithful themselv es who will
remonstrate against such evil.



==================================
Pol.ethiopia
Sep.30,2005
==========================



__________________________________
Yahoo! Mail - PC Magazine Editors' Choice 2005
http://mail.yahoo.com

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Message: 2
Date: Tue, 4 Oct 2005 00:56:45 -0700 (PDT)
From: Political Ethiopia
To: pol.ethiopia@lists.sn.apc.org
Cc: scem@haven.eyrie.org
Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items

October 01, 2005
CUD top official says CUD, UEDF will devise more
effective strategies against strategies against gov't

Police say hand grenades found at CUD office
Addis Ababa, ENA/WIC - Notwithstanding Thursday’s
decision of CUD and UEDF suspending the demonstration
they had planned for tomorrow, they would carry on
with the struggle through other forthcoming
strategies, which would have put greater pressure on
the incumbent govern ment and which would highly be
effective, says CUD First Deputy Chairperson Bertukan
Mideksa.

In an interview with Ethiopian Review Website on
Thursday, Bertukan said the city government disallowed
the planned demonstration demanding unconditional
acceptance from the parties of the constitution and
officially announced results of the May national
elections.

She said, the parties had been preparing for the
demonstration on big-scale. Now we know the
demonstration is not going to take place. This
decision of us could well have been said ill-advised,
if we had not been prepared for an alternative
decision. We will hold a series of discussions shortly
to come up with more effective strategies for peaceful
struggle.

The constitution reserves the rights of citizens to
hold demonstrations and the legal procedure to do so
is by submitting an application bearing date and venue
of any planned mass rally. This CUD and UEDF tried
jointly to submit. In the process, we were made to
suffer many inconveniences, she said.

In the end we were barred from holding the
demonstration as they (the authorities) demanded that
we accept the constitution and the election results
unconditionally.

This led to CUD and UEDF to decide to defer the
demonstration, she said.

The constitution under Article 9/1 stipulates that the
constitution is the supreme law of the land and any
law whether statutory or traditional; and any decision
by a government body or official would not be legally
applicable, if they contradict the content of the
constitution. Sub-article 3 prohibits any move to take
over power through unconstitutional means.

In due consideration of the foregoing and other
relevant constitutional stipulations, the pertinent
body with the Addis Ababa City Government had
requested that CUD and UEDF clearly state in written
form their unequ ivocal acceptance of the constitution
and the results of the election before they could get
permit for the demonstration, which was said to have
been organized with the intent to create unrest and
violence.


It is to be recalled that the Justice and Legal
Affairs Bureau stated that the foregoing request was
only made to receive the assurances of the parties
that the demonstration would not contravene the
constitution.

Meanwhile, the would-be mayor of Addis Ababa, Dr.
Berhanu Nega, and 101 elects of the city
administration and members of the CUD have reportedly
failed to agree on assignments of individual elects as
most of them wanted to secure jobs in the new
administration.

According to Iftin, a biweekly Amharic newspaper, the
recent four-hour long meeting was tense because the
would-be mayor declared that those elects who are not
given jobs as per their qualifications and
experiences, but insist on being g iven jobs for
reasons that they were fired or do not have earnings
can right away resign from the council. He said those
not assigned in the executive body would attend the
regular meetings to be held in two months.

The statement, according to the paper, infuriated some
members who claimed that they were promised jobs and
even one member threatened to resign. Dr. Berhanu
however aggressively reiterated his position and
similarly threatened to give up his position if the
incompetent fill posts as in the past administration.

Deliberating on the planned October 2 demonstration
called by UEDF and CUD, though the members finally
agreed to cool the mood of the “people” in cooperation
with the government, some said the residents have
prepared machetes, daggers and weapons to be used
during the demonstration. They even doubted whether
the CUD could prevail on the zealots. But Dr. Berhanu
insisted that it is up to the leadershi p to show their
leading role, Iftin reported citing insiders.

Meanwhile, the Dire Dawa Police Commission said
yesterday that two bombs were found in the premises of
the office of CUD.

Police reacting from a tip off conducted a search
yesterday morning on the premises of the CUD office,
where they found two hand grenades, acting
Commissioner Commander Yemane Mengistu told ENA.

Also found during the search was a written statement
showing who’s possession the grenades were as well as
when and for what purpose they were kept hidden, he
said.

Four CUD members suspected of connection with the case
were brought to custody as further investigation went
on.

Police will made public the results of the
investigation, he said.

Ambassador Huddleston says May 15 election created
Ethiopia's first ever multi-party parliament
Addis Ababa, ENA - The Charge’d’ Affaires of the U.S.
Embassy to Ethiopia, Ambassador V icki Huddleston, said
the May 15, 2005 national elections has given the
Ethiopian people their first ever multi-party
parliament.
Speaking at a media round-table discussion yesterday
at the premises of the American Embassy, Ambassador
Huddleston said that the recent Ethiopian election
should be a win-win situation where the EPRDF has won
a majority of parliament seats to form the next
government, while the oppositions won 170 seats.

Citing the U.S government’s statement of September
16,2005, Ambassador Huddleston said that the elections
stand out as a milestone in creating a new, more
competitive multi-party political system in one of
Africa’s largest and most important countries.
“We call on all newly elected members of parliament to
take their seats, and serve under Ethiopia’s
constitution, ”Charge’d’ Affaires said.
“I believe that the Ethiopian people have spoken,” She
said, and added “the only way that democracy and the
will of the people will prevail is if all elected
representatives respect the constitutional process and
do their best to represent their constituents in the
new multi-party parliament.”
Ambassador Huddleston also indicated the desire of the
U.S government to work impartially with the elected
government and with all parties in a bid to craft a
solution to outstanding issues resulting from the
election.

October 2, 2005
US Congress urges elected opposition MPS to take seats
in parliament
Addis Ababa, (WIC) - The United States Congress has
urged the elected opposition parliament members ''to
take their seats because it is essential for the sake
of all Ethiopians that the government and the
opposition take steps to reduce growing tension''.
A letter addressed to Prime Minister Meles Zenawi and
the leaders of CUD and UEDF stated that, “The
opposition parties had far more opportunity to make
their case and th e turnout was truly impressive”.
It said the people of Ethiopia proclaimed clearly and
loudly to the world that they want to live in
democracy and peace under the rule of the law.
The Congress in its letter insisted that all
participants in the electoral process demonstrate
patience and restraint and opposition parties should
pursue any legitimate arguments concerning contested
seats in the High Court.
Citizens need to exercise their freedom of speech and
freedom of assembly, but any demonstration should
attempt to obtain legal sanction and should be carried
out peacefully, the letter added.
The statement of the Congress said, “The one
development that would be intolerable for us and many
of our colleagues in Congress is the renewed outbreak
of violence and the death of innocent Ethiopians”.
EPRDF endorses resolution not to negotiate with
opposition parties
Addis Ababa, (WIC) - The EPRDF Council today endorsed
t he resolution earlier passed by the Executive
Committee of the Front not to negotiate with
opposition parties which do not respect the law and to
take appropriate measures to enforce the law whenever
necessary.
According to the Spokesperson of the Council, it also
approved the policy of the committee to hold dialogue
on various issues if the parties abide by the law
The meeting also evaluated the six-month performance
report on the nation-wide election held for the third
time in a democratic way and gained credence by the
public. It noted that the election was described as
free and fair by the Election Observer mission of the
African Union and the Carter Center thus ascertaining
that it is a big democratic gain.
The council also appreciated the decision by the
executive committee denouncing the violent intents of
the opposition aimed at breaking the law under the
pretext of election irregularities and stated the
re-run elections held in a free and democratic manner
proved EPRDF to be the winner.
The council further passed decisions that the new
parliament as well as regional councils hold their
founding meetings and form a government for the coming
five years in accordance with the schedule set by the
government.
It finally declared that the government, as per the
commitment it has made, should further strengthen the
good governance and development endeavors so as to
ensure the benefits of the public.
UEDF, CUD CANCEL STAY-AT-HOME STRIKE, EXPRESS
COMMITMENT TO PRESS AHEAD THROUGH DEMOCRATIC,
PARLIAMENTARY PROCESS
Addis Ababa, (ENA) - Coalition for Unity and Democracy
(CUD) and United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF)
have cancelled their stay-at-home strike announced
earlier on Saturday and expressed commitment to press
ahead through a democratic and parliamentary process.
CUD and UEDF announced their decision later on
Saturday.
Charge d'Affaires with the U.S Embassy in Ethiopia
Ambassador Vicky Huddleston said that Prime Minister
Meles Zenawi has agreed to talks with the opposition
based on their commitment.
The joint statement CUD and UEDF issued said, We have
been in continual contact with several ambassadors and
they have also been in contact with the Prime
Minister.
As a result of these discussions we have cancelled our
stay at home strike announced earlier today. We are
committing ourselves to press for our objectives
through a democratic and parliamentary process, the
statement said.

We understand that based on the talks of the
international community with Prime Minister Meles and
our declaration, the talks will begin as early as
tomorrow, (and) we believe this advances the
democratic process in a peaceful and constructive
manner.
In a statement read at the occasion, Ambassadors
Huddleston and British Ambassa dor to Ethiopia Bob
Dewar said that based on this commitment of the CUD
and UEDF, the Prime Minister has agreed to talks with
the opposition beginning as early as Sunday (October
2, 2005).
They congratulated the ruling party and the opposition
on what they said is a courageous initiative.
October 03,2005
Harari State holds founding conference
Harar, [WIC] - The founding conference of the Harari
State, which began today, has endorsed the nomination
of the State's Chief and Deputy Administrators as well
as other appointees.
The Council has unanimously endorsed the nomination of
Murad Abdulhadin as Chief Administrator, and Regassa
Kefyalew as Deputy Administrator of the State.
Also were appointed Abdulmalik Beker as Speaker, and
Muktar Ali as Deputy Speaker. Elias Yahya was elected
as President of the State's Supreme Court.
The Council next approved the nominations of Bureau
heads proposed by the Chief Administrator.
Accordingly, the former Chief Administrator of the
State, Fuad Ibrahim, was appointed Education and
Capacity Building Bureau head, along with other heads.

Speaking at the conclusion of the sworn-in ceremony,
the new Chief Administrator, Murad Abdulhadin said
development works, poverty reduction, good governance
and decentralization endeavors will be further
consolidated.





========================================
pol.ethiopia
Sept.4,2005
==============================



__________________________________
Yahoo! Mail - PC Magazine Editors' Choice 2005
http://mail.yahoo.com

--__--__--

Message: 3
Date: Wed, 5 Oct 2005 05:50:45 -0700 (PDT)
From: Political Ethiopia
To: pol.ethiopia@lists.sn.apc.org
Cc: SCEM@haven.eyrie.org
Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items

October 04, 2005

Ethiopian Democratic Union distances itself from UEDF

Addis Ababa, (WIC) - The Audit and Control Committee
of the Ethiopian Democratic Union (EDU) said on
Saturday that it has dissociated itself from the
United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF), Iftin, a
bi-weekly Amharic reported.
According to the statement issued by the Committee,
EDU has temporarily severed its relations with the
umbrella party, the United Ethiopian Democratic
Forces, and would soon elect its leaders, the paper
added.
The Committee has accused the leader of the EDU, Derje
Kebede in particular, of embezzling materials donated
for the recent elections. It also blamed UEDF for
failing to respond positively to the repeated requests
it made to solve the problem of the party.
It again stated that none of the candidates of the
thirty-year old party was elected in the third
national election owing to their preoccupation in
corrupt practices and misappropriation of funds.
According to the Audit and Control Commi ttee of the
party, the leaders have consistently failed to respond
to their letters requesting to conduct auditing. They
have instead passed the documents of other party and

=== message truncated ===

Yahoo! Music Unlimited - Access over 1 million songs. Try it free. --0-466349834-1128963095=:26804-- From polethiopia at yahoo.com Tue Oct 4 09:56:45 2005 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Feb 27 14:15:40 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20051004075645.56574.qmail@web53304.mail.yahoo.com> October 01, 2005 CUD top official says CUD, UEDF will devise more effective strategies against strategies against gov't Police say hand grenades found at CUD office Addis Ababa, ENA/WIC - Notwithstanding Thursday?s decision of CUD and UEDF suspending the demonstration they had planned for tomorrow, they would carry on with the struggle through other forthcoming strategies, which would have put greater pressure on the incumbent government and which would highly be effective, says CUD First Deputy Chairperson Bertukan Mideksa. In an interview with Ethiopian Review Website on Thursday, Bertukan said the city government disallowed the planned demonstration demanding unconditional acceptance from the parties of the constitution and officially announced results of the May national elections. She said, the parties had been preparing for the demonstration on big-scale. Now we know the demonstration is not going to take place. This decision of us could well have been said ill-advised, if we had not been prepared for an alternative decision. We will hold a series of discussions shortly to come up with more effective strategies for peaceful struggle. The constitution reserves the rights of citizens to hold demonstrations and the legal procedure to do so is by submitting an application bearing date and venue of any planned mass rally. This CUD and UEDF tried jointly to submit. In the process, we were made to suffer many inconveniences, she said. In the end we were barred from holding the demonstration as they (the authorities) demanded that we accept the constitution and the election results unconditionally. This led to CUD and UEDF to decide to defer the demonstration, she said. The constitution under Article 9/1 stipulates that the constitution is the supreme law of the land and any law whether statutory or traditional; and any decision by a government body or official would not be legally applicable, if they contradict the content of the constitution. Sub-article 3 prohibits any move to take over power through unconstitutional means. In due consideration of the foregoing and other relevant constitutional stipulations, the pertinent body with the Addis Ababa City Government had requested that CUD and UEDF clearly state in written form their unequivocal acceptance of the constitution and the results of the election before they could get permit for the demonstration, which was said to have been organized with the intent to create unrest and violence. It is to be recalled that the Justice and Legal Affairs Bureau stated that the foregoing request was only made to receive the assurances of the parties that the demonstration would not contravene the constitution. Meanwhile, the would-be mayor of Addis Ababa, Dr. Berhanu Nega, and 101 elects of the city administration and members of the CUD have reportedly failed to agree on assignments of individual elects as most of them wanted to secure jobs in the new administration. According to Iftin, a biweekly Amharic newspaper, the recent four-hour long meeting was tense because the would-be mayor declared that those elects who are not given jobs as per their qualifications and experiences, but insist on being given jobs for reasons that they were fired or do not have earnings can right away resign from the council. He said those not assigned in the executive body would attend the regular meetings to be held in two months. The statement, according to the paper, infuriated some members who claimed that they were promised jobs and even one member threatened to resign. Dr. Berhanu however aggressively reiterated his position and similarly threatened to give up his position if the incompetent fill posts as in the past administration. Deliberating on the planned October 2 demonstration called by UEDF and CUD, though the members finally agreed to cool the mood of the ?people? in cooperation with the government, some said the residents have prepared machetes, daggers and weapons to be used during the demonstration. They even doubted whether the CUD could prevail on the zealots. But Dr. Berhanu insisted that it is up to the leadership to show their leading role, Iftin reported citing insiders. Meanwhile, the Dire Dawa Police Commission said yesterday that two bombs were found in the premises of the office of CUD. Police reacting from a tip off conducted a search yesterday morning on the premises of the CUD office, where they found two hand grenades, acting Commissioner Commander Yemane Mengistu told ENA. Also found during the search was a written statement showing who?s possession the grenades were as well as when and for what purpose they were kept hidden, he said. Four CUD members suspected of connection with the case were brought to custody as further investigation went on. Police will made public the results of the investigation, he said. Ambassador Huddleston says May 15 election created Ethiopia's first ever multi-party parliament Addis Ababa, ENA - The Charge?d? Affaires of the U.S. Embassy to Ethiopia, Ambassador Vicki Huddleston, said the May 15, 2005 national elections has given the Ethiopian people their first ever multi-party parliament. Speaking at a media round-table discussion yesterday at the premises of the American Embassy, Ambassador Huddleston said that the recent Ethiopian election should be a win-win situation where the EPRDF has won a majority of parliament seats to form the next government, while the oppositions won 170 seats. Citing the U.S government?s statement of September 16,2005, Ambassador Huddleston said that the elections stand out as a milestone in creating a new, more competitive multi-party political system in one of Africa?s largest and most important countries. ?We call on all newly elected members of parliament to take their seats, and serve under Ethiopia?s constitution, ?Charge?d? Affaires said. ?I believe that the Ethiopian people have spoken,? She said, and added ?the only way that democracy and the will of the people will prevail is if all elected representatives respect the constitutional process and do their best to represent their constituents in the new multi-party parliament.? Ambassador Huddleston also indicated the desire of the U.S government to work impartially with the elected government and with all parties in a bid to craft a solution to outstanding issues resulting from the election. October 2, 2005 US Congress urges elected opposition MPS to take seats in parliament Addis Ababa, (WIC) - The United States Congress has urged the elected opposition parliament members ''to take their seats because it is essential for the sake of all Ethiopians that the government and the opposition take steps to reduce growing tension''. A letter addressed to Prime Minister Meles Zenawi and the leaders of CUD and UEDF stated that, ?The opposition parties had far more opportunity to make their case and the turnout was truly impressive?. It said the people of Ethiopia proclaimed clearly and loudly to the world that they want to live in democracy and peace under the rule of the law. The Congress in its letter insisted that all participants in the electoral process demonstrate patience and restraint and opposition parties should pursue any legitimate arguments concerning contested seats in the High Court. Citizens need to exercise their freedom of speech and freedom of assembly, but any demonstration should attempt to obtain legal sanction and should be carried out peacefully, the letter added. The statement of the Congress said, ?The one development that would be intolerable for us and many of our colleagues in Congress is the renewed outbreak of violence and the death of innocent Ethiopians?. EPRDF endorses resolution not to negotiate with opposition parties Addis Ababa, (WIC) - The EPRDF Council today endorsed the resolution earlier passed by the Executive Committee of the Front not to negotiate with opposition parties which do not respect the law and to take appropriate measures to enforce the law whenever necessary. According to the Spokesperson of the Council, it also approved the policy of the committee to hold dialogue on various issues if the parties abide by the law The meeting also evaluated the six-month performance report on the nation-wide election held for the third time in a democratic way and gained credence by the public. It noted that the election was described as free and fair by the Election Observer mission of the African Union and the Carter Center thus ascertaining that it is a big democratic gain. The council also appreciated the decision by the executive committee denouncing the violent intents of the opposition aimed at breaking the law under the pretext of election irregularities and stated the re-run elections held in a free and democratic manner proved EPRDF to be the winner. The council further passed decisions that the new parliament as well as regional councils hold their founding meetings and form a government for the coming five years in accordance with the schedule set by the government. It finally declared that the government, as per the commitment it has made, should further strengthen the good governance and development endeavors so as to ensure the benefits of the public. UEDF, CUD CANCEL STAY-AT-HOME STRIKE, EXPRESS COMMITMENT TO PRESS AHEAD THROUGH DEMOCRATIC, PARLIAMENTARY PROCESS Addis Ababa, (ENA) - Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD) and United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF) have cancelled their stay-at-home strike announced earlier on Saturday and expressed commitment to press ahead through a democratic and parliamentary process. CUD and UEDF announced their decision later on Saturday. Charge d'Affaires with the U.S Embassy in Ethiopia Ambassador Vicky Huddleston said that Prime Minister Meles Zenawi has agreed to talks with the opposition based on their commitment. The joint statement CUD and UEDF issued said, We have been in continual contact with several ambassadors and they have also been in contact with the Prime Minister. As a result of these discussions we have cancelled our stay at home strike announced earlier today. We are committing ourselves to press for our objectives through a democratic and parliamentary process, the statement said. We understand that based on the talks of the international community with Prime Minister Meles and our declaration, the talks will begin as early as tomorrow, (and) we believe this advances the democratic process in a peaceful and constructive manner. In a statement read at the occasion, Ambassadors Huddleston and British Ambassador to Ethiopia Bob Dewar said that based on this commitment of the CUD and UEDF, the Prime Minister has agreed to talks with the opposition beginning as early as Sunday (October 2, 2005). They congratulated the ruling party and the opposition on what they said is a courageous initiative. October 03,2005 Harari State holds founding conference Harar, [WIC] - The founding conference of the Harari State, which began today, has endorsed the nomination of the State's Chief and Deputy Administrators as well as other appointees. The Council has unanimously endorsed the nomination of Murad Abdulhadin as Chief Administrator, and Regassa Kefyalew as Deputy Administrator of the State. Also were appointed Abdulmalik Beker as Speaker, and Muktar Ali as Deputy Speaker. Elias Yahya was elected as President of the State's Supreme Court. The Council next approved the nominations of Bureau heads proposed by the Chief Administrator. Accordingly, the former Chief Administrator of the State, Fuad Ibrahim, was appointed Education and Capacity Building Bureau head, along with other heads. Speaking at the conclusion of the sworn-in ceremony, the new Chief Administrator, Murad Abdulhadin said development works, poverty reduction, good governance and decentralization endeavors will be further consolidated. ======================================== pol.ethiopia Sept.4,2005 ============================== __________________________________ Yahoo! Mail - PC Magazine Editors' Choice 2005 http://mail.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Wed Oct 5 14:50:45 2005 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Feb 27 14:15:40 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20051005125045.85999.qmail@web53309.mail.yahoo.com> October 04, 2005 Ethiopian Democratic Union distances itself from UEDF Addis Ababa, (WIC) - The Audit and Control Committee of the Ethiopian Democratic Union (EDU) said on Saturday that it has dissociated itself from the United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF), Iftin, a bi-weekly Amharic reported. According to the statement issued by the Committee, EDU has temporarily severed its relations with the umbrella party, the United Ethiopian Democratic Forces, and would soon elect its leaders, the paper added. The Committee has accused the leader of the EDU, Derje Kebede in particular, of embezzling materials donated for the recent elections. It also blamed UEDF for failing to respond positively to the repeated requests it made to solve the problem of the party. It again stated that none of the candidates of the thirty-year old party was elected in the third national election owing to their preoccupation in corrupt practices and misappropriation of funds. According to the Audit and Control Committee of the party, the leaders have consistently failed to respond to their letters requesting to conduct auditing. They have instead passed the documents of other party and claimed to have lost it, Iftin said quoting their statement. The main office of EDU was therefore sealed off for an indefinite period to salvage the party and until a decision is reached on individuals who have destructive motives, the Committee reportedly said. Javier Solana says only path laid in constitution provides way for democracy in Ethiopia Addis Ababa, October 04, 2005 (WIC) - Javier Solana, EU High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy, on Saturday noted that ?only the path laid down in the Constitution, which provides for the convening of a new Council of People?s Representative (HPR) wherein the rights of all are respected, will allow for democracy to be established in Ethiopia in an enduring manner.? According to ?Ethio-Index? website, the High Representative has welcomed the meeting that took place on 2 October in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, between the Ethiopian authorities and the Opposition. In a telephone conversation he had on 1 October with Prime Minister Meles Zenawi, the High Representative emphasized the opportunity such a meeting would create in order to help resume dialogue and to offer a perspective whereby the parties would be able to settle the differences that had emerged subsequent to the general elections of 15 May 2005. Solana also urged all Ethiopian parties to continue to exercise restraint. CUD retracts October 3 statement Addis Ababa (ENA) - Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD) says it retracts its statement made on October 3,2005 which makes it seem that Prime Minister Meles Zenawi initiated the dialogue. In a statement it issued on Tuesday the CUD says, We wish to clearly state our commitment to our Saturday October 1, 2005 statement and retract the statement made on October 3, 2005 that the Prime Minister initiated the dialogue, rather it was initiated by the international community. The CUD would like to state that we stand by our joint statement of Saturday October 1, 2005. On the basis of that statement we have committed ourselves to peaceful and legal action and pursue our objectives through the democratic and parliamentary process, the Statement signed by Birtukan Mideksa, First Deputy Chairman of the CUD says. It says, We recognize that the statement of October 1, 2005 was a necessary undertaking by the CUD for the start of the dialogue. CUD made the statement in the presence of U.S. Charge d Affaires Vicky Huddleston, and UK Ambassador to Ethiopia Bob Dewar. Meanwhile, after CUD made the above statement of deletion, the dialogue between the three parties, EPRDF, CUD and UEDF, has commenced on Tuesday. The parties discussed on procedure of the dialogue, which went on in a constructive spirit, the parties affirmed. The parties agreed to continue the dialogue on Wednesday. ===================================== Pol.ethiopia Oct.5,2005 ==================== __________________________________ Yahoo! Mail - PC Magazine Editors' Choice 2005 http://mail.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Mon Oct 10 14:52:17 2005 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Feb 27 14:15:40 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20051010125217.11908.qmail@web53315.mail.yahoo.com> October 08, 2005 Opposition parties quit negotiations with the ruling EPRDF Addis Ababa, (WIC) - The Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD) and United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF) have discontinued the recent negotiations blaming the ruling EPRDF for being not willing to include additional agendas to the eight agendas agreed upon. In a joint statement they gave late on Friday evening, the executives of the two parties said the refusal of EPRDF to include additional agendas other than those agreed upon , which they consider a precondition, has forced them to pull out of the discussion. They said the respect for the ''stolen votes'' and the formation of National Unity Transitional Government were the agendas they proposed to be included in the discussion, but rejected by EPRDF. They also said the EPRDF was unwilling to accept agendas on issues of reconsidering the results of the national elections endorsed by the National Electoral Board of Ethiopia and re-organization of legal institutions, including the board. The movement of the defense and police forces in urban areas was also the agendas proposed by opposition parties for discussion but EPRDF rejected it saying it would not negotiate the issue of defense and police, as it is the issue of safeguarding the constitution and national security. Asked as to what measures they would take after quitting the discussion, the executives said they would pursue peaceful struggle. Regarding the joining or boycotting the federal parliament, they said the issue of joining the parliament is yet to be decided .CUD has scheduled to reach decision on Saturday. It was to be recalled that CUD and UEDF said they had agreed with the EPRDF that the discussion was conducted in a constructive spirit, while pointing out they had reached agreement on eight agendas and rules of engagement in the joint statement they gave on October 25, 2005. The agendas in which EPRDF, CUD and UEDF had reached agreement for discussion, include, among others, accountability to the constitution of the country, refraining from violent activities, respect the supremacy of the law and abiding by the constitution. Addis City Administration CUD holds talks Addis Ababa, ENA - The Addis Ababa City Provisional Ad-ministration said it held talks with the Coalition of the Unity and Democracy (CUD) here yesterday. In a statement it sent to ENA yesterday, the Administration said it has finalized preparation to hand over power to the winning party, CUD. However, it said, the CUD has been requested to disclose its position whether it will join in the city and federal parliaments. The Statement said the representatives of CUD said during the discussion that the issue of joining the federal parliament has not yet been decided and that it is under discussion. Accordingly, the two sides reached consensus to discuss the issue as soon as CUD reaches final decisions, as it would be impossible to settle the subject in question for the time being, the statement said. The discussion was held in accordance with the request made by CUD, it said. Five Cabinet Members including City Mayor Arkebe Ekubay and five executive of the CUD Including Dr. Admasu Gebeyehu as well as Deputy Head of the National Electoral Board of Ethiopia Tesfaye Mengesha attended the discussion between the two sides. October 09,2005 ONC says it will never overlooks forces against rights, privileges of Oromo people Addis Ababa, ENA -As there is no the Oromo National Congress (ONC) under Dr. Merera Gudina, the Oromo National Congress will never overlook those individuals and groups who promote their benefits at the expense of the rights and privileges of the Oromo people, ONC Provisional Secretary said. Bona Tadesse told ENA late on Saturday that the central committee of the congress said that there is no any representative of the ONC at the United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF) during its meeting held on September 25, 2005. Some 38 of the 39 members of the ONC who won the election will join the parliament due to be formed next Monday. Bona said though, the ONC had previously announced that Dr. Merera Gudina would not represent the congress on any forum, he had taken part in the discussion held recently between EPRDF, CUD and EPRDF. The congress has been working by designing its own strategy like other political parties in the country, the Provisional Secretary said. He said ONC will form unity with other Oromo organizations, but never with other forces were oppressing the Oromo people. Oromia State council concluded, elects members of Federation council Adama, - The founding conference of the Oromia State council was concluded after electing members of the Federation council and establishing various committees. The founding conference concluded on Saturday has elected President and vice President of the State Council as well as 19 members of the Federation council. The conference has also decided with majority votes to lift immunity of members the Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD), who refused to join the newly established council until the next conference. It was also indicated that only six of the 33 CUD members who won the May 15 election joined the State Council so far. Moreover, the assembly has unanimously approved the agenda forwarded by Speaker of the State Council, Dr. Mohammed Hassen for the establishment of six standing committees. Accordingly, the State Council will have administration and security, Industry and town development, budget and finance, women and public organization as well as social affairs standing committees. Some 10 representatives of opposition political parties have been included in the committees. The Speaker said establishment of the standing committees is needed for the realization of government policies with the participation of the public. Majority MPs registered for inaugural conference Addis Ababa, (WIC)- Registration of MPs who would attend the inaugural conference of the House of Peoples Representatives has reportedly been underway up until today. According to the Information and Public Relations Department of the HPR, 44 members of the UEDF, including the leaders Dr. Beyene Petros and Dr. Merea Gudaina, and six CUD members were registered. Also were registered 10 members of the Oromo Federalist Democratic Movement, it said. It is to be recalled that the ruling party EPRDF has won 327 seats in the HPR, while the CUD secured 109 seats and UEDF 52. The Somali People Democratic Party won 24 seats and OFDM 11 seats. October 10,2005 HPR re-elects Meles Zenawi as Prime Minister Addis Ababa, (WIC)-The inaugural conference of the House of Peoples Representatives (HPR), which began this morning, has re-elected Meles Zenawi as Prime Minister for the coming five years. The HPR also elected Teshome Toga as Speaker and Shitaye Minale Deputy Speaker. The House will reconvene its session tomorrow morning, it was learnt. According to the latest statistics obtained from the HPR, 44 members of United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF) and six members of Coalition for Unity and Democracy as well as the winning party, EPRDF, attended the opening session. The inaugural session was held in the presence of foreign dignitaries, religious leaders and other invited guests. Meanwhile, the founding conference of the Addis Ababa Administration was not convened as scheduled today as members of the winning party, CUD, failed to show up. The National Electoral Board of Ethiopia had called for the convening of the first session this morning, it was learnt. ======================================= Polethiopia Oct. 10,2005 =============================== __________________________________ Yahoo! Music Unlimited Access over 1 million songs. Try it free. http://music.yahoo.com/unlimited/ From polethiopia at yahoo.com Fri Oct 14 08:49:41 2005 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Feb 27 14:15:40 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20051014064942.3896.qmail@web53310.mail.yahoo.com> October 11, 2005 HPR revokes immunity of MPs, endorses appointment of cabinet members Addis Ababa (WIC)- The House of Peoples? Representatives (HPR) today revoked the immunity of MPs who did not take up their seats at the parliament and boycotted the founding conference of the Addis Ababa administration, and approved a new cabinet of ministers proposed by the Prime Minister. The House was told that the elect MPs who boycotted the parliament and the founding conference of the Addis Ababa administration have been openly advocating and working to overthrow the government. As this stands against the constitution revoking their immunity would thus protect life and ensure stability, Meles said. Following a lengthy debate, the HPR finally decided to revoke their immunity and gave mandate to the existing provisional administration of the Addis Ababa administration to continue administering the city as the wining party, CUD, has failed to take over its responsibilities. Earlier, the House of Peoples? Representatives endorsed the appointment of a new cabinet comprising 20 members. The appointment of the ministers was approved by a majority vote after the Prime Minister submitted the list of the candidates to the House. Accordingly, the following were appointed by the HPR. 1.Addisu Legesse....... .Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development 2.Tefera Walwa......... .Minister of Capacity Building 3.Dr. Sintayehu Woldemikael..... Minister of Education 4.Girma Biru....... ...... .Minister of Trade and Industry 5.Junedi Sado....... . ....Minister of Transport and Communications 6.Dr. Kasu Ilala.... .. .. .Minister of Works and Urban Development 7.Sufian Ahmed..... ....Minister Finance and Economic Development 8.Melaku Fenta.. .. ....Minister of Revenue 9. Siraj Fegeta........ ...... Minister of Federal Affairs 10. Dr.Tewodros Adhanom .. Minister of Health 11. Assefa Keseto.. . .......Minister of Justice 12. Kuma Demekesa. .....Minister of Defense 13. Seyoum Mesfin.. .......Minister of Foreign Affairs 14. Berhan Hailu..... ...... Minister of Information 15. Asefaw Dingam... ..Minister of Water Resources 16. Aster Mamo..... ........ Minister of Youth and Sports 17. Hirut Dilebo.... .....Minister of Women?s Affairs 18. Mahmud Dirir. ...... .Minister of Culture and Tourism 19. Alemayehu Tegenu .....Minister Mines and Energy 20. Hassen Abdella... .... Minister of Labor and Social Affairs. 21. Shiferaw Jarsso................. Minister without portfolio and Party chair In a related development, Prime Minister Meles Zenawi has also informed the HPR about the appointment of the following State Ministers. 1- State Ministers of Capacity Building Fikru Desalegn Belete Negeeso 2- State Ministers of Education Dr. Adhana Haile Wondewosen Kiflu Fuad Ibrahim 3- State Ministers of Trade and Industry Tadesse Haile Mohammed Tussa 4- State Ministers of Agriculture and Rural Development Dr. Abera Deressa Ahmed Nasir Yacob Yana 5- State Minister of Transport and Communications Getachew Mengiste 6- State Minister of Works and Urban Development Arkeb Equbay 7- State Ministers of Finance and Economic Development Mekonnen Manyazewal Ambassador Brehanu Kebede Mamo Getu 8- State Minister of Revenue Tezera Wodadjo 9- State Minister of Federal Affairs Maeregu Hailemariam 10- State Minister of Health Dr. Kebede Worku 11- State Ministers of Justice Dr. Hashim Tofik Simegn Wubie 12- State Ministers of Defense General Haile Tilahun Sultan Mohammed Kasahun Dendir 13- State Ministers of Foreign Affairs Dr. Tekeda Alemu Nega Tsegaye 14- State Minister of Information Tesema Fotee 15- State Minister of Water Resources Adugna Jebessa 16- State Minister of Youth and Sports Abdissa Yadeta 17- ,State Minister of Women?s Affairs Uboh Mohammed Hussein 18- State Ministers of Culture and Tourism Tadelech Dalecha Mohamed Ge?as 19- State Minister of Mines and Energy Sinkenesh Ijigu 20- State Ministers of Labor and Social Affairs Zenebu Tadesse Mohammed Maadin Ali Authority transfers five government owned enterprises to private holdings Addis Ababa, October 11,2005 (WIC) - The Privatization and Public Enterprise Supervising Authority disclosed that it has transferred five government owned enterprises to private holdings in various ways. At a handing over ceremony of the Gulele Garment factory yesterday the Authority stated that it is transferring government owned enterprises through management contract, joint venture and selling as well as returning them to their previous owners. Accordingly, the Gulele Garment factory and Mojo Tannery were sold, while the Nifas Silk yarn factory was returned to the owner. The Ethiopian Tannery was given in management contract, while the Dire Dawa Cement factory was transferred to a joint venture. The Gulele Garment factory was reportedly sold for 1.9 million birr to a private company. ================================ Pol.ethiopia Oct. 14,2005 ======================== __________________________________ Yahoo! Mail - PC Magazine Editors' Choice 2005 http://mail.yahoo.com From abelay2003 at yahoo.com Mon Oct 10 18:51:35 2005 From: abelay2003 at yahoo.com (Alem Belay) Date: Tue Feb 27 14:15:40 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] Re: Pol.ethiopia digest, Vol 1 #1177 - 4 msgs In-Reply-To: <20051010130301.26783.10744.Mailman@sangonet1> Message-ID: <20051010165136.27070.qmail@web30813.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Hello, A lot of discussion has been going on regarding the newly changed rules in the Ethiopian Parliament. However, all these discussions seem to be taking place in the absence of the actual rules for reference... old or new. Could someone be kind and send both rules so that things can be clarified, please? Thank you, Alem pol.ethiopia-request@lists.sn.apc.org wrote: Send Pol.ethiopia mailing list submissions to pol.ethiopia@lists.sn.apc.org To subscribe or unsubscribe via the World Wide Web, visit http://lists.sn.apc.org/mailman/listinfo/pol.ethiopia or, via email, send a message with subject or body 'help' to pol.ethiopia-request@lists.sn.apc.org You can reach the person managing the list at pol.ethiopia-admin@lists.sn.apc.org When replying, please edit your Subject line so it is more specific than "Re: Contents of Pol.ethiopia digest..." Today's Topics: 1. News Items (Political Ethiopia) 2. News Items (Political Ethiopia) 3. News Items (Political Ethiopia) 4. News Items (Political Ethiopia) --__--__-- Message: 1 Date: Fri, 30 Sep 2005 05:50:21 -0700 (PDT) From: Political Ethiopia To: pol.ethiopia@lists.sn.apc.org Cc: scem@haven.eyrie.org Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items September 30, 2005 UEDF, CUD say Sunday's demonstration postponed for another time Addis Ababa, (ENA) - The United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF) and the Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD) announced on Thursday that they have postponed for unspecified time the demonstration they had scheduled for this Sunday. At a joint press conference they gave on Thursday, executive members of the CUD and UEDF pointed out that the political tension has mounted high and they have decided to postpone the October 2 demonstration saying the government and EPRDF have not allowed them to do so. The executive members said they have not been able to gather their supporters from various regional states, and added that the government demanded them to present a guarantee that they would hold the demonstration in the spirit of the Constitution and accepting the results of the election. The parties said EPRDF and the government have unlawfully denied their legal rights and urged the public to await for another round of call which, they said, they would make in the future. They said they would announce their alternative options other than the demonstration for the public. The parties also said they would hold consultations and issue statements addressing their members and supporters on October 3, 2005 concerning the demonstration and other related matters. Justice and Legal Affairs Head with the Addis Ababa City Administration, Woldetensae Woldemelak said the parties were asked to provide guarantee to abide by Article 9 of the Constitution. However, he added, the parties have not responded to the demand. The Administration has made the demand based on various newspaper reports suggesting that the demonstration may not be peaceful and with a view to making sure that it would not be against the Constitutional system. Meles holds talks with Secretary General of World Council of Churches Addis Ababa, (ENA) - Prime Minister Meles Zenawi held talks with Secretary General of the World Council of Churches Dr. Samuel Kobi here on Wednesday. Prime Minister Meles Zenawi on the occasion expressed that he felt honored to confer with the delegation led by Dr. Kobi. Prime Minister Meles briefed the delegation about current regional issues as well as about the recently held national elections in Ethiopia. Dr. Kobi on his part expressed his appreciation to Prime Minister Meles for having been playing significant roles for Africa. Dr. Kobi appreciated Meles for his significant roles in the Sudan peace process through IGAD as well as in his efforts as one of the Commissioners of the Commission for Africa to alleviate poverty in Africa. Dr. Kobi told journalists that he took it upon himself to visit Ethiopia to get a first-hand knowledge and experience of Ethiopia, the only African country as founding member of the World Council of Churches. He said during his visit he have seen a wide-range of development activities being carried out in the country. Commenting on election-related issues, Dr. Kobi said the oppositions boycotting parliament might lead the country to clashes and indicated the need for the government and religious institutions to make employ all options to prevent this looming danger. Dr. Kobi said he was informed by Prime Minister Meles that the government had held discussions with the oppositions and will carry on with its efforts to safeguard the constitution and the peace and security of citizens. Dr. Kobi pledged that the World Council of Churches will do everything possible to help diffuse tension. EOC Holy Synod deplores attempted violence at Demera celebration Addis Ababa, ENA - Ethiopian Orthodox Church (EOC) has strongly denounced the attempted violence amidst Demera celebrations on September 26, dubbing the act as un-religious and unethical. Office of EOC's Holy Synod, in a statement it gave on Wednesday in connection with the attempted violence at the Meskel Square, said the violence was targetted against all Christians. The attempted violence came about to the vexation of the Church and such an act could not go without tarnishing Ethiopia's good image in this age-long and unique religious tradition of the Church, the statement said. The annual celebration is Ethiopia's unique tradition acclaimed worldwide, but which, along with the people of the country known for their strong sense of descipline, is exposed to redicule due to such blatant acts committed by ndividuals taken by wickedness, the statement said. The Church advised the faithful to maintain their religious tradition and laws, to stand firm for peace and to keep from sacrelige. It said, the attempted violence was orchestrated in a bid to advance hidden agenda by making use of religion as a pretext. It said all citizens should recognize this and keep from involvement in such acts. It said the Church deplores all those who, in their bid to solicit the Church's partisanship for themselves, so wrongly and deliberately paints it as partisan. This it said should be known by all Ethiopians living inside or outside the country. It urged the government to discharge its responsibility of preventing any such acts in the Church's Holy Days. The Patriarch His Holiness Abune Paulos on his part said he lamented what he saw and heard - an act of sacrelige which has never been encountered in the country. He said the act was targetted against the faithful, and it will be the faithful themselves who will remonstrate against such evil. ================================== Pol.ethiopia Sep.30,2005 ========================== __________________________________ Yahoo! Mail - PC Magazine Editors' Choice 2005 http://mail.yahoo.com --__--__-- Message: 2 Date: Tue, 4 Oct 2005 00:56:45 -0700 (PDT) From: Political Ethiopia To: pol.ethiopia@lists.sn.apc.org Cc: scem@haven.eyrie.org Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items October 01, 2005 CUD top official says CUD, UEDF will devise more effective strategies against strategies against gov't Police say hand grenades found at CUD office Addis Ababa, ENA/WIC - Notwithstanding Thursday?s decision of CUD and UEDF suspending the demonstration they had planned for tomorrow, they would carry on with the struggle through other forthcoming strategies, which would have put greater pressure on the incumbent government and which would highly be effective, says CUD First Deputy Chairperson Bertukan Mideksa. In an interview with Ethiopian Review Website on Thursday, Bertukan said the city government disallowed the planned demonstration demanding unconditional acceptance from the parties of the constitution and officially announced results of the May national elections. She said, the parties had been preparing for the demonstration on big-scale. Now we know the demonstration is not going to take place. This decision of us could well have been said ill-advised, if we had not been prepared for an alternative decision. We will hold a series of discussions shortly to come up with more effective strategies for peaceful struggle. The constitution reserves the rights of citizens to hold demonstrations and the legal procedure to do so is by submitting an application bearing date and venue of any planned mass rally. This CUD and UEDF tried jointly to submit. In the process, we were made to suffer many inconveniences, she said. In the end we were barred from holding the demonstration as they (the authorities) demanded that we accept the constitution and the election results unconditionally. This led to CUD and UEDF to decide to defer the demonstration, she said. The constitution under Article 9/1 stipulates that the constitution is the supreme law of the land and any law whether statutory or traditional; and any decision by a government body or official would not be legally applicable, if they contradict the content of the constitution. Sub-article 3 prohibits any move to take over power through unconstitutional means. In due consideration of the foregoing and other relevant constitutional stipulations, the pertinent body with the Addis Ababa City Government had requested that CUD and UEDF clearly state in written form their unequivocal acceptance of the constitution and the results of the election before they could get permit for the demonstration, which was said to have been organized with the intent to create unrest and violence. It is to be recalled that the Justice and Legal Affairs Bureau stated that the foregoing request was only made to receive the assurances of the parties that the demonstration would not contravene the constitution. Meanwhile, the would-be mayor of Addis Ababa, Dr. Berhanu Nega, and 101 elects of the city administration and members of the CUD have reportedly failed to agree on assignments of individual elects as most of them wanted to secure jobs in the new administration. According to Iftin, a biweekly Amharic newspaper, the recent four-hour long meeting was tense because the would-be mayor declared that those elects who are not given jobs as per their qualifications and experiences, but insist on being given jobs for reasons that they were fired or do not have earnings can right away resign from the council. He said those not assigned in the executive body would attend the regular meetings to be held in two months. The statement, according to the paper, infuriated some members who claimed that they were promised jobs and even one member threatened to resign. Dr. Berhanu however aggressively reiterated his position and similarly threatened to give up his position if the incompetent fill posts as in the past administration. Deliberating on the planned October 2 demonstration called by UEDF and CUD, though the members finally agreed to cool the mood of the ?people? in cooperation with the government, some said the residents have prepared machetes, daggers and weapons to be used during the demonstration. They even doubted whether the CUD could prevail on the zealots. But Dr. Berhanu insisted that it is up to the leadership to show their leading role, Iftin reported citing insiders. Meanwhile, the Dire Dawa Police Commission said yesterday that two bombs were found in the premises of the office of CUD. Police reacting from a tip off conducted a search yesterday morning on the premises of the CUD office, where they found two hand grenades, acting Commissioner Commander Yemane Mengistu told ENA. Also found during the search was a written statement showing who?s possession the grenades were as well as when and for what purpose they were kept hidden, he said. Four CUD members suspected of connection with the case were brought to custody as further investigation went on. Police will made public the results of the investigation, he said. Ambassador Huddleston says May 15 election created Ethiopia's first ever multi-party parliament Addis Ababa, ENA - The Charge?d? Affaires of the U.S. Embassy to Ethiopia, Ambassador Vicki Huddleston, said the May 15, 2005 national elections has given the Ethiopian people their first ever multi-party parliament. Speaking at a media round-table discussion yesterday at the premises of the American Embassy, Ambassador Huddleston said that the recent Ethiopian election should be a win-win situation where the EPRDF has won a majority of parliament seats to form the next government, while the oppositions won 170 seats. Citing the U.S government?s statement of September 16,2005, Ambassador Huddleston said that the elections stand out as a milestone in creating a new, more competitive multi-party political system in one of Africa?s largest and most important countries. ?We call on all newly elected members of parliament to take their seats, and serve under Ethiopia?s constitution, ?Charge?d? Affaires said. ?I believe that the Ethiopian people have spoken,? She said, and added ?the only way that democracy and the will of the people will prevail is if all elected representatives respect the constitutional process and do their best to represent their constituents in the new multi-party parliament.? Ambassador Huddleston also indicated the desire of the U.S government to work impartially with the elected government and with all parties in a bid to craft a solution to outstanding issues resulting from the election. October 2, 2005 US Congress urges elected opposition MPS to take seats in parliament Addis Ababa, (WIC) - The United States Congress has urged the elected opposition parliament members ''to take their seats because it is essential for the sake of all Ethiopians that the government and the opposition take steps to reduce growing tension''. A letter addressed to Prime Minister Meles Zenawi and the leaders of CUD and UEDF stated that, ?The opposition parties had far more opportunity to make their case and the turnout was truly impressive?. It said the people of Ethiopia proclaimed clearly and loudly to the world that they want to live in democracy and peace under the rule of the law. The Congress in its letter insisted that all participants in the electoral process demonstrate patience and restraint and opposition parties should pursue any legitimate arguments concerning contested seats in the High Court. Citizens need to exercise their freedom of speech and freedom of assembly, but any demonstration should attempt to obtain legal sanction and should be carried out peacefully, the letter added. The statement of the Congress said, ?The one development that would be intolerable for us and many of our colleagues in Congress is the renewed outbreak of violence and the death of innocent Ethiopians?. EPRDF endorses resolution not to negotiate with opposition parties Addis Ababa, (WIC) - The EPRDF Council today endorsed the resolution earlier passed by the Executive Committee of the Front not to negotiate with opposition parties which do not respect the law and to take appropriate measures to enforce the law whenever necessary. According to the Spokesperson of the Council, it also approved the policy of the committee to hold dialogue on various issues if the parties abide by the law The meeting also evaluated the six-month performance report on the nation-wide election held for the third time in a democratic way and gained credence by the public. It noted that the election was described as free and fair by the Election Observer mission of the African Union and the Carter Center thus ascertaining that it is a big democratic gain. The council also appreciated the decision by the executive committee denouncing the violent intents of the opposition aimed at breaking the law under the pretext of election irregularities and stated the re-run elections held in a free and democratic manner proved EPRDF to be the winner. The council further passed decisions that the new parliament as well as regional councils hold their founding meetings and form a government for the coming five years in accordance with the schedule set by the government. It finally declared that the government, as per the commitment it has made, should further strengthen the good governance and development endeavors so as to ensure the benefits of the public. UEDF, CUD CANCEL STAY-AT-HOME STRIKE, EXPRESS COMMITMENT TO PRESS AHEAD THROUGH DEMOCRATIC, PARLIAMENTARY PROCESS Addis Ababa, (ENA) - Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD) and United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF) have cancelled their stay-at-home strike announced earlier on Saturday and expressed commitment to press ahead through a democratic and parliamentary process. CUD and UEDF announced their decision later on Saturday. Charge d'Affaires with the U.S Embassy in Ethiopia Ambassador Vicky Huddleston said that Prime Minister Meles Zenawi has agreed to talks with the opposition based on their commitment. The joint statement CUD and UEDF issued said, We have been in continual contact with several ambassadors and they have also been in contact with the Prime Minister. As a result of these discussions we have cancelled our stay at home strike announced earlier today. We are committing ourselves to press for our objectives through a democratic and parliamentary process, the statement said. We understand that based on the talks of the international community with Prime Minister Meles and our declaration, the talks will begin as early as tomorrow, (and) we believe this advances the democratic process in a peaceful and constructive manner. In a statement read at the occasion, Ambassadors Huddleston and British Ambassador to Ethiopia Bob Dewar said that based on this commitment of the CUD and UEDF, the Prime Minister has agreed to talks with the opposition beginning as early as Sunday (October 2, 2005). They congratulated the ruling party and the opposition on what they said is a courageous initiative. October 03,2005 Harari State holds founding conference Harar, [WIC] - The founding conference of the Harari State, which began today, has endorsed the nomination of the State's Chief and Deputy Administrators as well as other appointees. The Council has unanimously endorsed the nomination of Murad Abdulhadin as Chief Administrator, and Regassa Kefyalew as Deputy Administrator of the State. Also were appointed Abdulmalik Beker as Speaker, and Muktar Ali as Deputy Speaker. Elias Yahya was elected as President of the State's Supreme Court. The Council next approved the nominations of Bureau heads proposed by the Chief Administrator. Accordingly, the former Chief Administrator of the State, Fuad Ibrahim, was appointed Education and Capacity Building Bureau head, along with other heads. Speaking at the conclusion of the sworn-in ceremony, the new Chief Administrator, Murad Abdulhadin said development works, poverty reduction, good governance and decentralization endeavors will be further consolidated. ======================================== pol.ethiopia Sept.4,2005 ============================== __________________________________ Yahoo! Mail - PC Magazine Editors' Choice 2005 http://mail.yahoo.com --__--__-- Message: 3 Date: Wed, 5 Oct 2005 05:50:45 -0700 (PDT) From: Political Ethiopia To: pol.ethiopia@lists.sn.apc.org Cc: SCEM@haven.eyrie.org Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items October 04, 2005 Ethiopian Democratic Union distances itself from UEDF Addis Ababa, (WIC) - The Audit and Control Committee of the Ethiopian Democratic Union (EDU) said on Saturday that it has dissociated itself from the United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF), Iftin, a bi-weekly Amharic reported. According to the statement issued by the Committee, EDU has temporarily severed its relations with the umbrella party, the United Ethiopian Democratic Forces, and would soon elect its leaders, the paper added. The Committee has accused the leader of the EDU, Derje Kebede in particular, of embezzling materials donated for the recent elections. It also blamed UEDF for failing to respond positively to the repeated requests it made to solve the problem of the party. It again stated that none of the candidates of the thirty-year old party was elected in the third national election owing to their preoccupation in corrupt practices and misappropriation of funds. According to the Audit and Control Committee of the party, the leaders have consistently failed to respond to their letters requesting to conduct auditing. They have instead passed the documents of other party and === message truncated === --------------------------------- Yahoo! Music Unlimited - Access over 1 million songs. Try it free. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://lists.sn.apc.org/pipermail/pol.ethiopia/attachments/20051010/d6ad6ed5/attachment.htm From polethiopia at yahoo.com Tue Oct 4 09:56:45 2005 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Apr 17 18:19:43 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20051004075645.56574.qmail@web53304.mail.yahoo.com> October 01, 2005 CUD top official says CUD, UEDF will devise more effective strategies against strategies against gov't Police say hand grenades found at CUD office Addis Ababa, ENA/WIC - Notwithstanding Thursday?s decision of CUD and UEDF suspending the demonstration they had planned for tomorrow, they would carry on with the struggle through other forthcoming strategies, which would have put greater pressure on the incumbent government and which would highly be effective, says CUD First Deputy Chairperson Bertukan Mideksa. In an interview with Ethiopian Review Website on Thursday, Bertukan said the city government disallowed the planned demonstration demanding unconditional acceptance from the parties of the constitution and officially announced results of the May national elections. She said, the parties had been preparing for the demonstration on big-scale. Now we know the demonstration is not going to take place. This decision of us could well have been said ill-advised, if we had not been prepared for an alternative decision. We will hold a series of discussions shortly to come up with more effective strategies for peaceful struggle. The constitution reserves the rights of citizens to hold demonstrations and the legal procedure to do so is by submitting an application bearing date and venue of any planned mass rally. This CUD and UEDF tried jointly to submit. In the process, we were made to suffer many inconveniences, she said. In the end we were barred from holding the demonstration as they (the authorities) demanded that we accept the constitution and the election results unconditionally. This led to CUD and UEDF to decide to defer the demonstration, she said. The constitution under Article 9/1 stipulates that the constitution is the supreme law of the land and any law whether statutory or traditional; and any decision by a government body or official would not be legally applicable, if they contradict the content of the constitution. Sub-article 3 prohibits any move to take over power through unconstitutional means. In due consideration of the foregoing and other relevant constitutional stipulations, the pertinent body with the Addis Ababa City Government had requested that CUD and UEDF clearly state in written form their unequivocal acceptance of the constitution and the results of the election before they could get permit for the demonstration, which was said to have been organized with the intent to create unrest and violence. It is to be recalled that the Justice and Legal Affairs Bureau stated that the foregoing request was only made to receive the assurances of the parties that the demonstration would not contravene the constitution. Meanwhile, the would-be mayor of Addis Ababa, Dr. Berhanu Nega, and 101 elects of the city administration and members of the CUD have reportedly failed to agree on assignments of individual elects as most of them wanted to secure jobs in the new administration. According to Iftin, a biweekly Amharic newspaper, the recent four-hour long meeting was tense because the would-be mayor declared that those elects who are not given jobs as per their qualifications and experiences, but insist on being given jobs for reasons that they were fired or do not have earnings can right away resign from the council. He said those not assigned in the executive body would attend the regular meetings to be held in two months. The statement, according to the paper, infuriated some members who claimed that they were promised jobs and even one member threatened to resign. Dr. Berhanu however aggressively reiterated his position and similarly threatened to give up his position if the incompetent fill posts as in the past administration. Deliberating on the planned October 2 demonstration called by UEDF and CUD, though the members finally agreed to cool the mood of the ?people? in cooperation with the government, some said the residents have prepared machetes, daggers and weapons to be used during the demonstration. They even doubted whether the CUD could prevail on the zealots. But Dr. Berhanu insisted that it is up to the leadership to show their leading role, Iftin reported citing insiders. Meanwhile, the Dire Dawa Police Commission said yesterday that two bombs were found in the premises of the office of CUD. Police reacting from a tip off conducted a search yesterday morning on the premises of the CUD office, where they found two hand grenades, acting Commissioner Commander Yemane Mengistu told ENA. Also found during the search was a written statement showing who?s possession the grenades were as well as when and for what purpose they were kept hidden, he said. Four CUD members suspected of connection with the case were brought to custody as further investigation went on. Police will made public the results of the investigation, he said. Ambassador Huddleston says May 15 election created Ethiopia's first ever multi-party parliament Addis Ababa, ENA - The Charge?d? Affaires of the U.S. Embassy to Ethiopia, Ambassador Vicki Huddleston, said the May 15, 2005 national elections has given the Ethiopian people their first ever multi-party parliament. Speaking at a media round-table discussion yesterday at the premises of the American Embassy, Ambassador Huddleston said that the recent Ethiopian election should be a win-win situation where the EPRDF has won a majority of parliament seats to form the next government, while the oppositions won 170 seats. Citing the U.S government?s statement of September 16,2005, Ambassador Huddleston said that the elections stand out as a milestone in creating a new, more competitive multi-party political system in one of Africa?s largest and most important countries. ?We call on all newly elected members of parliament to take their seats, and serve under Ethiopia?s constitution, ?Charge?d? Affaires said. ?I believe that the Ethiopian people have spoken,? She said, and added ?the only way that democracy and the will of the people will prevail is if all elected representatives respect the constitutional process and do their best to represent their constituents in the new multi-party parliament.? Ambassador Huddleston also indicated the desire of the U.S government to work impartially with the elected government and with all parties in a bid to craft a solution to outstanding issues resulting from the election. October 2, 2005 US Congress urges elected opposition MPS to take seats in parliament Addis Ababa, (WIC) - The United States Congress has urged the elected opposition parliament members ''to take their seats because it is essential for the sake of all Ethiopians that the government and the opposition take steps to reduce growing tension''. A letter addressed to Prime Minister Meles Zenawi and the leaders of CUD and UEDF stated that, ?The opposition parties had far more opportunity to make their case and the turnout was truly impressive?. It said the people of Ethiopia proclaimed clearly and loudly to the world that they want to live in democracy and peace under the rule of the law. The Congress in its letter insisted that all participants in the electoral process demonstrate patience and restraint and opposition parties should pursue any legitimate arguments concerning contested seats in the High Court. Citizens need to exercise their freedom of speech and freedom of assembly, but any demonstration should attempt to obtain legal sanction and should be carried out peacefully, the letter added. The statement of the Congress said, ?The one development that would be intolerable for us and many of our colleagues in Congress is the renewed outbreak of violence and the death of innocent Ethiopians?. EPRDF endorses resolution not to negotiate with opposition parties Addis Ababa, (WIC) - The EPRDF Council today endorsed the resolution earlier passed by the Executive Committee of the Front not to negotiate with opposition parties which do not respect the law and to take appropriate measures to enforce the law whenever necessary. According to the Spokesperson of the Council, it also approved the policy of the committee to hold dialogue on various issues if the parties abide by the law The meeting also evaluated the six-month performance report on the nation-wide election held for the third time in a democratic way and gained credence by the public. It noted that the election was described as free and fair by the Election Observer mission of the African Union and the Carter Center thus ascertaining that it is a big democratic gain. The council also appreciated the decision by the executive committee denouncing the violent intents of the opposition aimed at breaking the law under the pretext of election irregularities and stated the re-run elections held in a free and democratic manner proved EPRDF to be the winner. The council further passed decisions that the new parliament as well as regional councils hold their founding meetings and form a government for the coming five years in accordance with the schedule set by the government. It finally declared that the government, as per the commitment it has made, should further strengthen the good governance and development endeavors so as to ensure the benefits of the public. UEDF, CUD CANCEL STAY-AT-HOME STRIKE, EXPRESS COMMITMENT TO PRESS AHEAD THROUGH DEMOCRATIC, PARLIAMENTARY PROCESS Addis Ababa, (ENA) - Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD) and United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF) have cancelled their stay-at-home strike announced earlier on Saturday and expressed commitment to press ahead through a democratic and parliamentary process. CUD and UEDF announced their decision later on Saturday. Charge d'Affaires with the U.S Embassy in Ethiopia Ambassador Vicky Huddleston said that Prime Minister Meles Zenawi has agreed to talks with the opposition based on their commitment. The joint statement CUD and UEDF issued said, We have been in continual contact with several ambassadors and they have also been in contact with the Prime Minister. As a result of these discussions we have cancelled our stay at home strike announced earlier today. We are committing ourselves to press for our objectives through a democratic and parliamentary process, the statement said. We understand that based on the talks of the international community with Prime Minister Meles and our declaration, the talks will begin as early as tomorrow, (and) we believe this advances the democratic process in a peaceful and constructive manner. In a statement read at the occasion, Ambassadors Huddleston and British Ambassador to Ethiopia Bob Dewar said that based on this commitment of the CUD and UEDF, the Prime Minister has agreed to talks with the opposition beginning as early as Sunday (October 2, 2005). They congratulated the ruling party and the opposition on what they said is a courageous initiative. October 03,2005 Harari State holds founding conference Harar, [WIC] - The founding conference of the Harari State, which began today, has endorsed the nomination of the State's Chief and Deputy Administrators as well as other appointees. The Council has unanimously endorsed the nomination of Murad Abdulhadin as Chief Administrator, and Regassa Kefyalew as Deputy Administrator of the State. Also were appointed Abdulmalik Beker as Speaker, and Muktar Ali as Deputy Speaker. Elias Yahya was elected as President of the State's Supreme Court. The Council next approved the nominations of Bureau heads proposed by the Chief Administrator. Accordingly, the former Chief Administrator of the State, Fuad Ibrahim, was appointed Education and Capacity Building Bureau head, along with other heads. Speaking at the conclusion of the sworn-in ceremony, the new Chief Administrator, Murad Abdulhadin said development works, poverty reduction, good governance and decentralization endeavors will be further consolidated. ======================================== pol.ethiopia Sept.4,2005 ============================== __________________________________ Yahoo! Mail - PC Magazine Editors' Choice 2005 http://mail.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Wed Oct 5 14:50:45 2005 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Apr 17 18:19:43 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20051005125045.85999.qmail@web53309.mail.yahoo.com> October 04, 2005 Ethiopian Democratic Union distances itself from UEDF Addis Ababa, (WIC) - The Audit and Control Committee of the Ethiopian Democratic Union (EDU) said on Saturday that it has dissociated itself from the United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF), Iftin, a bi-weekly Amharic reported. According to the statement issued by the Committee, EDU has temporarily severed its relations with the umbrella party, the United Ethiopian Democratic Forces, and would soon elect its leaders, the paper added. The Committee has accused the leader of the EDU, Derje Kebede in particular, of embezzling materials donated for the recent elections. It also blamed UEDF for failing to respond positively to the repeated requests it made to solve the problem of the party. It again stated that none of the candidates of the thirty-year old party was elected in the third national election owing to their preoccupation in corrupt practices and misappropriation of funds. According to the Audit and Control Committee of the party, the leaders have consistently failed to respond to their letters requesting to conduct auditing. They have instead passed the documents of other party and claimed to have lost it, Iftin said quoting their statement. The main office of EDU was therefore sealed off for an indefinite period to salvage the party and until a decision is reached on individuals who have destructive motives, the Committee reportedly said. Javier Solana says only path laid in constitution provides way for democracy in Ethiopia Addis Ababa, October 04, 2005 (WIC) - Javier Solana, EU High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy, on Saturday noted that ?only the path laid down in the Constitution, which provides for the convening of a new Council of People?s Representative (HPR) wherein the rights of all are respected, will allow for democracy to be established in Ethiopia in an enduring manner.? According to ?Ethio-Index? website, the High Representative has welcomed the meeting that took place on 2 October in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, between the Ethiopian authorities and the Opposition. In a telephone conversation he had on 1 October with Prime Minister Meles Zenawi, the High Representative emphasized the opportunity such a meeting would create in order to help resume dialogue and to offer a perspective whereby the parties would be able to settle the differences that had emerged subsequent to the general elections of 15 May 2005. Solana also urged all Ethiopian parties to continue to exercise restraint. CUD retracts October 3 statement Addis Ababa (ENA) - Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD) says it retracts its statement made on October 3,2005 which makes it seem that Prime Minister Meles Zenawi initiated the dialogue. In a statement it issued on Tuesday the CUD says, We wish to clearly state our commitment to our Saturday October 1, 2005 statement and retract the statement made on October 3, 2005 that the Prime Minister initiated the dialogue, rather it was initiated by the international community. The CUD would like to state that we stand by our joint statement of Saturday October 1, 2005. On the basis of that statement we have committed ourselves to peaceful and legal action and pursue our objectives through the democratic and parliamentary process, the Statement signed by Birtukan Mideksa, First Deputy Chairman of the CUD says. It says, We recognize that the statement of October 1, 2005 was a necessary undertaking by the CUD for the start of the dialogue. CUD made the statement in the presence of U.S. Charge d Affaires Vicky Huddleston, and UK Ambassador to Ethiopia Bob Dewar. Meanwhile, after CUD made the above statement of deletion, the dialogue between the three parties, EPRDF, CUD and UEDF, has commenced on Tuesday. The parties discussed on procedure of the dialogue, which went on in a constructive spirit, the parties affirmed. The parties agreed to continue the dialogue on Wednesday. ===================================== Pol.ethiopia Oct.5,2005 ==================== __________________________________ Yahoo! Mail - PC Magazine Editors' Choice 2005 http://mail.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Mon Oct 10 14:52:17 2005 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Apr 17 18:19:43 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20051010125217.11908.qmail@web53315.mail.yahoo.com> October 08, 2005 Opposition parties quit negotiations with the ruling EPRDF Addis Ababa, (WIC) - The Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD) and United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF) have discontinued the recent negotiations blaming the ruling EPRDF for being not willing to include additional agendas to the eight agendas agreed upon. In a joint statement they gave late on Friday evening, the executives of the two parties said the refusal of EPRDF to include additional agendas other than those agreed upon , which they consider a precondition, has forced them to pull out of the discussion. They said the respect for the ''stolen votes'' and the formation of National Unity Transitional Government were the agendas they proposed to be included in the discussion, but rejected by EPRDF. They also said the EPRDF was unwilling to accept agendas on issues of reconsidering the results of the national elections endorsed by the National Electoral Board of Ethiopia and re-organization of legal institutions, including the board. The movement of the defense and police forces in urban areas was also the agendas proposed by opposition parties for discussion but EPRDF rejected it saying it would not negotiate the issue of defense and police, as it is the issue of safeguarding the constitution and national security. Asked as to what measures they would take after quitting the discussion, the executives said they would pursue peaceful struggle. Regarding the joining or boycotting the federal parliament, they said the issue of joining the parliament is yet to be decided .CUD has scheduled to reach decision on Saturday. It was to be recalled that CUD and UEDF said they had agreed with the EPRDF that the discussion was conducted in a constructive spirit, while pointing out they had reached agreement on eight agendas and rules of engagement in the joint statement they gave on October 25, 2005. The agendas in which EPRDF, CUD and UEDF had reached agreement for discussion, include, among others, accountability to the constitution of the country, refraining from violent activities, respect the supremacy of the law and abiding by the constitution. Addis City Administration CUD holds talks Addis Ababa, ENA - The Addis Ababa City Provisional Ad-ministration said it held talks with the Coalition of the Unity and Democracy (CUD) here yesterday. In a statement it sent to ENA yesterday, the Administration said it has finalized preparation to hand over power to the winning party, CUD. However, it said, the CUD has been requested to disclose its position whether it will join in the city and federal parliaments. The Statement said the representatives of CUD said during the discussion that the issue of joining the federal parliament has not yet been decided and that it is under discussion. Accordingly, the two sides reached consensus to discuss the issue as soon as CUD reaches final decisions, as it would be impossible to settle the subject in question for the time being, the statement said. The discussion was held in accordance with the request made by CUD, it said. Five Cabinet Members including City Mayor Arkebe Ekubay and five executive of the CUD Including Dr. Admasu Gebeyehu as well as Deputy Head of the National Electoral Board of Ethiopia Tesfaye Mengesha attended the discussion between the two sides. October 09,2005 ONC says it will never overlooks forces against rights, privileges of Oromo people Addis Ababa, ENA -As there is no the Oromo National Congress (ONC) under Dr. Merera Gudina, the Oromo National Congress will never overlook those individuals and groups who promote their benefits at the expense of the rights and privileges of the Oromo people, ONC Provisional Secretary said. Bona Tadesse told ENA late on Saturday that the central committee of the congress said that there is no any representative of the ONC at the United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF) during its meeting held on September 25, 2005. Some 38 of the 39 members of the ONC who won the election will join the parliament due to be formed next Monday. Bona said though, the ONC had previously announced that Dr. Merera Gudina would not represent the congress on any forum, he had taken part in the discussion held recently between EPRDF, CUD and EPRDF. The congress has been working by designing its own strategy like other political parties in the country, the Provisional Secretary said. He said ONC will form unity with other Oromo organizations, but never with other forces were oppressing the Oromo people. Oromia State council concluded, elects members of Federation council Adama, - The founding conference of the Oromia State council was concluded after electing members of the Federation council and establishing various committees. The founding conference concluded on Saturday has elected President and vice President of the State Council as well as 19 members of the Federation council. The conference has also decided with majority votes to lift immunity of members the Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD), who refused to join the newly established council until the next conference. It was also indicated that only six of the 33 CUD members who won the May 15 election joined the State Council so far. Moreover, the assembly has unanimously approved the agenda forwarded by Speaker of the State Council, Dr. Mohammed Hassen for the establishment of six standing committees. Accordingly, the State Council will have administration and security, Industry and town development, budget and finance, women and public organization as well as social affairs standing committees. Some 10 representatives of opposition political parties have been included in the committees. The Speaker said establishment of the standing committees is needed for the realization of government policies with the participation of the public. Majority MPs registered for inaugural conference Addis Ababa, (WIC)- Registration of MPs who would attend the inaugural conference of the House of Peoples Representatives has reportedly been underway up until today. According to the Information and Public Relations Department of the HPR, 44 members of the UEDF, including the leaders Dr. Beyene Petros and Dr. Merea Gudaina, and six CUD members were registered. Also were registered 10 members of the Oromo Federalist Democratic Movement, it said. It is to be recalled that the ruling party EPRDF has won 327 seats in the HPR, while the CUD secured 109 seats and UEDF 52. The Somali People Democratic Party won 24 seats and OFDM 11 seats. October 10,2005 HPR re-elects Meles Zenawi as Prime Minister Addis Ababa, (WIC)-The inaugural conference of the House of Peoples Representatives (HPR), which began this morning, has re-elected Meles Zenawi as Prime Minister for the coming five years. The HPR also elected Teshome Toga as Speaker and Shitaye Minale Deputy Speaker. The House will reconvene its session tomorrow morning, it was learnt. According to the latest statistics obtained from the HPR, 44 members of United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF) and six members of Coalition for Unity and Democracy as well as the winning party, EPRDF, attended the opening session. The inaugural session was held in the presence of foreign dignitaries, religious leaders and other invited guests. Meanwhile, the founding conference of the Addis Ababa Administration was not convened as scheduled today as members of the winning party, CUD, failed to show up. The National Electoral Board of Ethiopia had called for the convening of the first session this morning, it was learnt. ======================================= Polethiopia Oct. 10,2005 =============================== __________________________________ Yahoo! Music Unlimited Access over 1 million songs. Try it free. http://music.yahoo.com/unlimited/ From polethiopia at yahoo.com Fri Oct 14 08:49:41 2005 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Apr 17 18:19:43 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20051014064942.3896.qmail@web53310.mail.yahoo.com> October 11, 2005 HPR revokes immunity of MPs, endorses appointment of cabinet members Addis Ababa (WIC)- The House of Peoples? Representatives (HPR) today revoked the immunity of MPs who did not take up their seats at the parliament and boycotted the founding conference of the Addis Ababa administration, and approved a new cabinet of ministers proposed by the Prime Minister. The House was told that the elect MPs who boycotted the parliament and the founding conference of the Addis Ababa administration have been openly advocating and working to overthrow the government. As this stands against the constitution revoking their immunity would thus protect life and ensure stability, Meles said. Following a lengthy debate, the HPR finally decided to revoke their immunity and gave mandate to the existing provisional administration of the Addis Ababa administration to continue administering the city as the wining party, CUD, has failed to take over its responsibilities. Earlier, the House of Peoples? Representatives endorsed the appointment of a new cabinet comprising 20 members. The appointment of the ministers was approved by a majority vote after the Prime Minister submitted the list of the candidates to the House. Accordingly, the following were appointed by the HPR. 1.Addisu Legesse....... .Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development 2.Tefera Walwa......... .Minister of Capacity Building 3.Dr. Sintayehu Woldemikael..... Minister of Education 4.Girma Biru....... ...... .Minister of Trade and Industry 5.Junedi Sado....... . ....Minister of Transport and Communications 6.Dr. Kasu Ilala.... .. .. .Minister of Works and Urban Development 7.Sufian Ahmed..... ....Minister Finance and Economic Development 8.Melaku Fenta.. .. ....Minister of Revenue 9. Siraj Fegeta........ ...... Minister of Federal Affairs 10. Dr.Tewodros Adhanom .. Minister of Health 11. Assefa Keseto.. . .......Minister of Justice 12. Kuma Demekesa. .....Minister of Defense 13. Seyoum Mesfin.. .......Minister of Foreign Affairs 14. Berhan Hailu..... ...... Minister of Information 15. Asefaw Dingam... ..Minister of Water Resources 16. Aster Mamo..... ........ Minister of Youth and Sports 17. Hirut Dilebo.... .....Minister of Women?s Affairs 18. Mahmud Dirir. ...... .Minister of Culture and Tourism 19. Alemayehu Tegenu .....Minister Mines and Energy 20. Hassen Abdella... .... Minister of Labor and Social Affairs. 21. Shiferaw Jarsso................. Minister without portfolio and Party chair In a related development, Prime Minister Meles Zenawi has also informed the HPR about the appointment of the following State Ministers. 1- State Ministers of Capacity Building Fikru Desalegn Belete Negeeso 2- State Ministers of Education Dr. Adhana Haile Wondewosen Kiflu Fuad Ibrahim 3- State Ministers of Trade and Industry Tadesse Haile Mohammed Tussa 4- State Ministers of Agriculture and Rural Development Dr. Abera Deressa Ahmed Nasir Yacob Yana 5- State Minister of Transport and Communications Getachew Mengiste 6- State Minister of Works and Urban Development Arkeb Equbay 7- State Ministers of Finance and Economic Development Mekonnen Manyazewal Ambassador Brehanu Kebede Mamo Getu 8- State Minister of Revenue Tezera Wodadjo 9- State Minister of Federal Affairs Maeregu Hailemariam 10- State Minister of Health Dr. Kebede Worku 11- State Ministers of Justice Dr. Hashim Tofik Simegn Wubie 12- State Ministers of Defense General Haile Tilahun Sultan Mohammed Kasahun Dendir 13- State Ministers of Foreign Affairs Dr. Tekeda Alemu Nega Tsegaye 14- State Minister of Information Tesema Fotee 15- State Minister of Water Resources Adugna Jebessa 16- State Minister of Youth and Sports Abdissa Yadeta 17- ,State Minister of Women?s Affairs Uboh Mohammed Hussein 18- State Ministers of Culture and Tourism Tadelech Dalecha Mohamed Ge?as 19- State Minister of Mines and Energy Sinkenesh Ijigu 20- State Ministers of Labor and Social Affairs Zenebu Tadesse Mohammed Maadin Ali Authority transfers five government owned enterprises to private holdings Addis Ababa, October 11,2005 (WIC) - The Privatization and Public Enterprise Supervising Authority disclosed that it has transferred five government owned enterprises to private holdings in various ways. At a handing over ceremony of the Gulele Garment factory yesterday the Authority stated that it is transferring government owned enterprises through management contract, joint venture and selling as well as returning them to their previous owners. Accordingly, the Gulele Garment factory and Mojo Tannery were sold, while the Nifas Silk yarn factory was returned to the owner. The Ethiopian Tannery was given in management contract, while the Dire Dawa Cement factory was transferred to a joint venture. The Gulele Garment factory was reportedly sold for 1.9 million birr to a private company. ================================ Pol.ethiopia Oct. 14,2005 ======================== __________________________________ Yahoo! Mail - PC Magazine Editors' Choice 2005 http://mail.yahoo.com From abelay2003 at yahoo.com Mon Oct 10 18:51:35 2005 From: abelay2003 at yahoo.com (Alem Belay) Date: Tue Apr 17 18:19:43 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] Re: Pol.ethiopia digest, Vol 1 #1177 - 4 msgs In-Reply-To: <20051010130301.26783.10744.Mailman@sangonet1> Message-ID: <20051010165136.27070.qmail@web30813.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Hello, A lot of discussion has been going on regarding the newly changed rules in the Ethiopian Parliament. However, all these discussions seem to be taking place in the absence of the actual rules for reference... old or new. Could someone be kind and send both rules so that things can be clarified, please? Thank you, Alem pol.ethiopia-request@lists.sn.apc.org wrote: Send Pol.ethiopia mailing list submissions to pol.ethiopia@lists.sn.apc.org To subscribe or unsubscribe via the World Wide Web, visit http://lists.sn.apc.org/mailman/listinfo/pol.ethiopia or, via email, send a message with subject or body 'help' to pol.ethiopia-request@lists.sn.apc.org You can reach the person managing the list at pol.ethiopia-admin@lists.sn.apc.org When replying, please edit your Subject line so it is more specific than "Re: Contents of Pol.ethiopia digest..." Today's Topics: 1. News Items (Political Ethiopia) 2. News Items (Political Ethiopia) 3. News Items (Political Ethiopia) 4. News Items (Political Ethiopia) --__--__-- Message: 1 Date: Fri, 30 Sep 2005 05:50:21 -0700 (PDT) From: Political Ethiopia To: pol.ethiopia@lists.sn.apc.org Cc: scem@haven.eyrie.org Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items September 30, 2005 UEDF, CUD say Sunday's demonstration postponed for another time Addis Ababa, (ENA) - The United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF) and the Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD) announced on Thursday that they have postponed for unspecified time the demonstration they had scheduled for this Sunday. At a joint press conference they gave on Thursday, executive members of the CUD and UEDF pointed out that the political tension has mounted high and they have decided to postpone the October 2 demonstration saying the government and EPRDF have not allowed them to do so. The executive members said they have not been able to gather their supporters from various regional states, and added that the government demanded them to present a guarantee that they would hold the demonstration in the spirit of the Constitution and accepting the results of the election. The parties said EPRDF and the government have unlawfully denied their legal rights and urged the public to await for another round of call which, they said, they would make in the future. They said they would announce their alternative options other than the demonstration for the public. The parties also said they would hold consultations and issue statements addressing their members and supporters on October 3, 2005 concerning the demonstration and other related matters. Justice and Legal Affairs Head with the Addis Ababa City Administration, Woldetensae Woldemelak said the parties were asked to provide guarantee to abide by Article 9 of the Constitution. However, he added, the parties have not responded to the demand. The Administration has made the demand based on various newspaper reports suggesting that the demonstration may not be peaceful and with a view to making sure that it would not be against the Constitutional system. Meles holds talks with Secretary General of World Council of Churches Addis Ababa, (ENA) - Prime Minister Meles Zenawi held talks with Secretary General of the World Council of Churches Dr. Samuel Kobi here on Wednesday. Prime Minister Meles Zenawi on the occasion expressed that he felt honored to confer with the delegation led by Dr. Kobi. Prime Minister Meles briefed the delegation about current regional issues as well as about the recently held national elections in Ethiopia. Dr. Kobi on his part expressed his appreciation to Prime Minister Meles for having been playing significant roles for Africa. Dr. Kobi appreciated Meles for his significant roles in the Sudan peace process through IGAD as well as in his efforts as one of the Commissioners of the Commission for Africa to alleviate poverty in Africa. Dr. Kobi told journalists that he took it upon himself to visit Ethiopia to get a first-hand knowledge and experience of Ethiopia, the only African country as founding member of the World Council of Churches. He said during his visit he have seen a wide-range of development activities being carried out in the country. Commenting on election-related issues, Dr. Kobi said the oppositions boycotting parliament might lead the country to clashes and indicated the need for the government and religious institutions to make employ all options to prevent this looming danger. Dr. Kobi said he was informed by Prime Minister Meles that the government had held discussions with the oppositions and will carry on with its efforts to safeguard the constitution and the peace and security of citizens. Dr. Kobi pledged that the World Council of Churches will do everything possible to help diffuse tension. EOC Holy Synod deplores attempted violence at Demera celebration Addis Ababa, ENA - Ethiopian Orthodox Church (EOC) has strongly denounced the attempted violence amidst Demera celebrations on September 26, dubbing the act as un-religious and unethical. Office of EOC's Holy Synod, in a statement it gave on Wednesday in connection with the attempted violence at the Meskel Square, said the violence was targetted against all Christians. The attempted violence came about to the vexation of the Church and such an act could not go without tarnishing Ethiopia's good image in this age-long and unique religious tradition of the Church, the statement said. The annual celebration is Ethiopia's unique tradition acclaimed worldwide, but which, along with the people of the country known for their strong sense of descipline, is exposed to redicule due to such blatant acts committed by ndividuals taken by wickedness, the statement said. The Church advised the faithful to maintain their religious tradition and laws, to stand firm for peace and to keep from sacrelige. It said, the attempted violence was orchestrated in a bid to advance hidden agenda by making use of religion as a pretext. It said all citizens should recognize this and keep from involvement in such acts. It said the Church deplores all those who, in their bid to solicit the Church's partisanship for themselves, so wrongly and deliberately paints it as partisan. This it said should be known by all Ethiopians living inside or outside the country. It urged the government to discharge its responsibility of preventing any such acts in the Church's Holy Days. The Patriarch His Holiness Abune Paulos on his part said he lamented what he saw and heard - an act of sacrelige which has never been encountered in the country. He said the act was targetted against the faithful, and it will be the faithful themselves who will remonstrate against such evil. ================================== Pol.ethiopia Sep.30,2005 ========================== __________________________________ Yahoo! Mail - PC Magazine Editors' Choice 2005 http://mail.yahoo.com --__--__-- Message: 2 Date: Tue, 4 Oct 2005 00:56:45 -0700 (PDT) From: Political Ethiopia To: pol.ethiopia@lists.sn.apc.org Cc: scem@haven.eyrie.org Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items October 01, 2005 CUD top official says CUD, UEDF will devise more effective strategies against strategies against gov't Police say hand grenades found at CUD office Addis Ababa, ENA/WIC - Notwithstanding Thursday?s decision of CUD and UEDF suspending the demonstration they had planned for tomorrow, they would carry on with the struggle through other forthcoming strategies, which would have put greater pressure on the incumbent government and which would highly be effective, says CUD First Deputy Chairperson Bertukan Mideksa. In an interview with Ethiopian Review Website on Thursday, Bertukan said the city government disallowed the planned demonstration demanding unconditional acceptance from the parties of the constitution and officially announced results of the May national elections. She said, the parties had been preparing for the demonstration on big-scale. Now we know the demonstration is not going to take place. This decision of us could well have been said ill-advised, if we had not been prepared for an alternative decision. We will hold a series of discussions shortly to come up with more effective strategies for peaceful struggle. The constitution reserves the rights of citizens to hold demonstrations and the legal procedure to do so is by submitting an application bearing date and venue of any planned mass rally. This CUD and UEDF tried jointly to submit. In the process, we were made to suffer many inconveniences, she said. In the end we were barred from holding the demonstration as they (the authorities) demanded that we accept the constitution and the election results unconditionally. This led to CUD and UEDF to decide to defer the demonstration, she said. The constitution under Article 9/1 stipulates that the constitution is the supreme law of the land and any law whether statutory or traditional; and any decision by a government body or official would not be legally applicable, if they contradict the content of the constitution. Sub-article 3 prohibits any move to take over power through unconstitutional means. In due consideration of the foregoing and other relevant constitutional stipulations, the pertinent body with the Addis Ababa City Government had requested that CUD and UEDF clearly state in written form their unequivocal acceptance of the constitution and the results of the election before they could get permit for the demonstration, which was said to have been organized with the intent to create unrest and violence. It is to be recalled that the Justice and Legal Affairs Bureau stated that the foregoing request was only made to receive the assurances of the parties that the demonstration would not contravene the constitution. Meanwhile, the would-be mayor of Addis Ababa, Dr. Berhanu Nega, and 101 elects of the city administration and members of the CUD have reportedly failed to agree on assignments of individual elects as most of them wanted to secure jobs in the new administration. According to Iftin, a biweekly Amharic newspaper, the recent four-hour long meeting was tense because the would-be mayor declared that those elects who are not given jobs as per their qualifications and experiences, but insist on being given jobs for reasons that they were fired or do not have earnings can right away resign from the council. He said those not assigned in the executive body would attend the regular meetings to be held in two months. The statement, according to the paper, infuriated some members who claimed that they were promised jobs and even one member threatened to resign. Dr. Berhanu however aggressively reiterated his position and similarly threatened to give up his position if the incompetent fill posts as in the past administration. Deliberating on the planned October 2 demonstration called by UEDF and CUD, though the members finally agreed to cool the mood of the ?people? in cooperation with the government, some said the residents have prepared machetes, daggers and weapons to be used during the demonstration. They even doubted whether the CUD could prevail on the zealots. But Dr. Berhanu insisted that it is up to the leadership to show their leading role, Iftin reported citing insiders. Meanwhile, the Dire Dawa Police Commission said yesterday that two bombs were found in the premises of the office of CUD. Police reacting from a tip off conducted a search yesterday morning on the premises of the CUD office, where they found two hand grenades, acting Commissioner Commander Yemane Mengistu told ENA. Also found during the search was a written statement showing who?s possession the grenades were as well as when and for what purpose they were kept hidden, he said. Four CUD members suspected of connection with the case were brought to custody as further investigation went on. Police will made public the results of the investigation, he said. Ambassador Huddleston says May 15 election created Ethiopia's first ever multi-party parliament Addis Ababa, ENA - The Charge?d? Affaires of the U.S. Embassy to Ethiopia, Ambassador Vicki Huddleston, said the May 15, 2005 national elections has given the Ethiopian people their first ever multi-party parliament. Speaking at a media round-table discussion yesterday at the premises of the American Embassy, Ambassador Huddleston said that the recent Ethiopian election should be a win-win situation where the EPRDF has won a majority of parliament seats to form the next government, while the oppositions won 170 seats. Citing the U.S government?s statement of September 16,2005, Ambassador Huddleston said that the elections stand out as a milestone in creating a new, more competitive multi-party political system in one of Africa?s largest and most important countries. ?We call on all newly elected members of parliament to take their seats, and serve under Ethiopia?s constitution, ?Charge?d? Affaires said. ?I believe that the Ethiopian people have spoken,? She said, and added ?the only way that democracy and the will of the people will prevail is if all elected representatives respect the constitutional process and do their best to represent their constituents in the new multi-party parliament.? Ambassador Huddleston also indicated the desire of the U.S government to work impartially with the elected government and with all parties in a bid to craft a solution to outstanding issues resulting from the election. October 2, 2005 US Congress urges elected opposition MPS to take seats in parliament Addis Ababa, (WIC) - The United States Congress has urged the elected opposition parliament members ''to take their seats because it is essential for the sake of all Ethiopians that the government and the opposition take steps to reduce growing tension''. A letter addressed to Prime Minister Meles Zenawi and the leaders of CUD and UEDF stated that, ?The opposition parties had far more opportunity to make their case and the turnout was truly impressive?. It said the people of Ethiopia proclaimed clearly and loudly to the world that they want to live in democracy and peace under the rule of the law. The Congress in its letter insisted that all participants in the electoral process demonstrate patience and restraint and opposition parties should pursue any legitimate arguments concerning contested seats in the High Court. Citizens need to exercise their freedom of speech and freedom of assembly, but any demonstration should attempt to obtain legal sanction and should be carried out peacefully, the letter added. The statement of the Congress said, ?The one development that would be intolerable for us and many of our colleagues in Congress is the renewed outbreak of violence and the death of innocent Ethiopians?. EPRDF endorses resolution not to negotiate with opposition parties Addis Ababa, (WIC) - The EPRDF Council today endorsed the resolution earlier passed by the Executive Committee of the Front not to negotiate with opposition parties which do not respect the law and to take appropriate measures to enforce the law whenever necessary. According to the Spokesperson of the Council, it also approved the policy of the committee to hold dialogue on various issues if the parties abide by the law The meeting also evaluated the six-month performance report on the nation-wide election held for the third time in a democratic way and gained credence by the public. It noted that the election was described as free and fair by the Election Observer mission of the African Union and the Carter Center thus ascertaining that it is a big democratic gain. The council also appreciated the decision by the executive committee denouncing the violent intents of the opposition aimed at breaking the law under the pretext of election irregularities and stated the re-run elections held in a free and democratic manner proved EPRDF to be the winner. The council further passed decisions that the new parliament as well as regional councils hold their founding meetings and form a government for the coming five years in accordance with the schedule set by the government. It finally declared that the government, as per the commitment it has made, should further strengthen the good governance and development endeavors so as to ensure the benefits of the public. UEDF, CUD CANCEL STAY-AT-HOME STRIKE, EXPRESS COMMITMENT TO PRESS AHEAD THROUGH DEMOCRATIC, PARLIAMENTARY PROCESS Addis Ababa, (ENA) - Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD) and United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF) have cancelled their stay-at-home strike announced earlier on Saturday and expressed commitment to press ahead through a democratic and parliamentary process. CUD and UEDF announced their decision later on Saturday. Charge d'Affaires with the U.S Embassy in Ethiopia Ambassador Vicky Huddleston said that Prime Minister Meles Zenawi has agreed to talks with the opposition based on their commitment. The joint statement CUD and UEDF issued said, We have been in continual contact with several ambassadors and they have also been in contact with the Prime Minister. As a result of these discussions we have cancelled our stay at home strike announced earlier today. We are committing ourselves to press for our objectives through a democratic and parliamentary process, the statement said. We understand that based on the talks of the international community with Prime Minister Meles and our declaration, the talks will begin as early as tomorrow, (and) we believe this advances the democratic process in a peaceful and constructive manner. In a statement read at the occasion, Ambassadors Huddleston and British Ambassador to Ethiopia Bob Dewar said that based on this commitment of the CUD and UEDF, the Prime Minister has agreed to talks with the opposition beginning as early as Sunday (October 2, 2005). They congratulated the ruling party and the opposition on what they said is a courageous initiative. October 03,2005 Harari State holds founding conference Harar, [WIC] - The founding conference of the Harari State, which began today, has endorsed the nomination of the State's Chief and Deputy Administrators as well as other appointees. The Council has unanimously endorsed the nomination of Murad Abdulhadin as Chief Administrator, and Regassa Kefyalew as Deputy Administrator of the State. Also were appointed Abdulmalik Beker as Speaker, and Muktar Ali as Deputy Speaker. Elias Yahya was elected as President of the State's Supreme Court. The Council next approved the nominations of Bureau heads proposed by the Chief Administrator. Accordingly, the former Chief Administrator of the State, Fuad Ibrahim, was appointed Education and Capacity Building Bureau head, along with other heads. Speaking at the conclusion of the sworn-in ceremony, the new Chief Administrator, Murad Abdulhadin said development works, poverty reduction, good governance and decentralization endeavors will be further consolidated. ======================================== pol.ethiopia Sept.4,2005 ============================== __________________________________ Yahoo! Mail - PC Magazine Editors' Choice 2005 http://mail.yahoo.com --__--__-- Message: 3 Date: Wed, 5 Oct 2005 05:50:45 -0700 (PDT) From: Political Ethiopia To: pol.ethiopia@lists.sn.apc.org Cc: SCEM@haven.eyrie.org Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items October 04, 2005 Ethiopian Democratic Union distances itself from UEDF Addis Ababa, (WIC) - The Audit and Control Committee of the Ethiopian Democratic Union (EDU) said on Saturday that it has dissociated itself from the United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF), Iftin, a bi-weekly Amharic reported. According to the statement issued by the Committee, EDU has temporarily severed its relations with the umbrella party, the United Ethiopian Democratic Forces, and would soon elect its leaders, the paper added. The Committee has accused the leader of the EDU, Derje Kebede in particular, of embezzling materials donated for the recent elections. It also blamed UEDF for failing to respond positively to the repeated requests it made to solve the problem of the party. It again stated that none of the candidates of the thirty-year old party was elected in the third national election owing to their preoccupation in corrupt practices and misappropriation of funds. According to the Audit and Control Committee of the party, the leaders have consistently failed to respond to their letters requesting to conduct auditing. They have instead passed the documents of other party and === message truncated === --------------------------------- Yahoo! Music Unlimited - Access over 1 million songs. Try it free. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://lists.sn.apc.org/pipermail/pol.ethiopia/attachments/20051010/d6ad6ed5/attachment-0001.htm From polethiopia at yahoo.com Tue Oct 4 09:56:45 2005 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Wed May 23 11:06:16 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20051004075645.56574.qmail@web53304.mail.yahoo.com> October 01, 2005 CUD top official says CUD, UEDF will devise more effective strategies against strategies against gov't Police say hand grenades found at CUD office Addis Ababa, ENA/WIC - Notwithstanding Thursday?s decision of CUD and UEDF suspending the demonstration they had planned for tomorrow, they would carry on with the struggle through other forthcoming strategies, which would have put greater pressure on the incumbent government and which would highly be effective, says CUD First Deputy Chairperson Bertukan Mideksa. In an interview with Ethiopian Review Website on Thursday, Bertukan said the city government disallowed the planned demonstration demanding unconditional acceptance from the parties of the constitution and officially announced results of the May national elections. She said, the parties had been preparing for the demonstration on big-scale. Now we know the demonstration is not going to take place. This decision of us could well have been said ill-advised, if we had not been prepared for an alternative decision. We will hold a series of discussions shortly to come up with more effective strategies for peaceful struggle. The constitution reserves the rights of citizens to hold demonstrations and the legal procedure to do so is by submitting an application bearing date and venue of any planned mass rally. This CUD and UEDF tried jointly to submit. In the process, we were made to suffer many inconveniences, she said. In the end we were barred from holding the demonstration as they (the authorities) demanded that we accept the constitution and the election results unconditionally. This led to CUD and UEDF to decide to defer the demonstration, she said. The constitution under Article 9/1 stipulates that the constitution is the supreme law of the land and any law whether statutory or traditional; and any decision by a government body or official would not be legally applicable, if they contradict the content of the constitution. Sub-article 3 prohibits any move to take over power through unconstitutional means. In due consideration of the foregoing and other relevant constitutional stipulations, the pertinent body with the Addis Ababa City Government had requested that CUD and UEDF clearly state in written form their unequivocal acceptance of the constitution and the results of the election before they could get permit for the demonstration, which was said to have been organized with the intent to create unrest and violence. It is to be recalled that the Justice and Legal Affairs Bureau stated that the foregoing request was only made to receive the assurances of the parties that the demonstration would not contravene the constitution. Meanwhile, the would-be mayor of Addis Ababa, Dr. Berhanu Nega, and 101 elects of the city administration and members of the CUD have reportedly failed to agree on assignments of individual elects as most of them wanted to secure jobs in the new administration. According to Iftin, a biweekly Amharic newspaper, the recent four-hour long meeting was tense because the would-be mayor declared that those elects who are not given jobs as per their qualifications and experiences, but insist on being given jobs for reasons that they were fired or do not have earnings can right away resign from the council. He said those not assigned in the executive body would attend the regular meetings to be held in two months. The statement, according to the paper, infuriated some members who claimed that they were promised jobs and even one member threatened to resign. Dr. Berhanu however aggressively reiterated his position and similarly threatened to give up his position if the incompetent fill posts as in the past administration. Deliberating on the planned October 2 demonstration called by UEDF and CUD, though the members finally agreed to cool the mood of the ?people? in cooperation with the government, some said the residents have prepared machetes, daggers and weapons to be used during the demonstration. They even doubted whether the CUD could prevail on the zealots. But Dr. Berhanu insisted that it is up to the leadership to show their leading role, Iftin reported citing insiders. Meanwhile, the Dire Dawa Police Commission said yesterday that two bombs were found in the premises of the office of CUD. Police reacting from a tip off conducted a search yesterday morning on the premises of the CUD office, where they found two hand grenades, acting Commissioner Commander Yemane Mengistu told ENA. Also found during the search was a written statement showing who?s possession the grenades were as well as when and for what purpose they were kept hidden, he said. Four CUD members suspected of connection with the case were brought to custody as further investigation went on. Police will made public the results of the investigation, he said. Ambassador Huddleston says May 15 election created Ethiopia's first ever multi-party parliament Addis Ababa, ENA - The Charge?d? Affaires of the U.S. Embassy to Ethiopia, Ambassador Vicki Huddleston, said the May 15, 2005 national elections has given the Ethiopian people their first ever multi-party parliament. Speaking at a media round-table discussion yesterday at the premises of the American Embassy, Ambassador Huddleston said that the recent Ethiopian election should be a win-win situation where the EPRDF has won a majority of parliament seats to form the next government, while the oppositions won 170 seats. Citing the U.S government?s statement of September 16,2005, Ambassador Huddleston said that the elections stand out as a milestone in creating a new, more competitive multi-party political system in one of Africa?s largest and most important countries. ?We call on all newly elected members of parliament to take their seats, and serve under Ethiopia?s constitution, ?Charge?d? Affaires said. ?I believe that the Ethiopian people have spoken,? She said, and added ?the only way that democracy and the will of the people will prevail is if all elected representatives respect the constitutional process and do their best to represent their constituents in the new multi-party parliament.? Ambassador Huddleston also indicated the desire of the U.S government to work impartially with the elected government and with all parties in a bid to craft a solution to outstanding issues resulting from the election. October 2, 2005 US Congress urges elected opposition MPS to take seats in parliament Addis Ababa, (WIC) - The United States Congress has urged the elected opposition parliament members ''to take their seats because it is essential for the sake of all Ethiopians that the government and the opposition take steps to reduce growing tension''. A letter addressed to Prime Minister Meles Zenawi and the leaders of CUD and UEDF stated that, ?The opposition parties had far more opportunity to make their case and the turnout was truly impressive?. It said the people of Ethiopia proclaimed clearly and loudly to the world that they want to live in democracy and peace under the rule of the law. The Congress in its letter insisted that all participants in the electoral process demonstrate patience and restraint and opposition parties should pursue any legitimate arguments concerning contested seats in the High Court. Citizens need to exercise their freedom of speech and freedom of assembly, but any demonstration should attempt to obtain legal sanction and should be carried out peacefully, the letter added. The statement of the Congress said, ?The one development that would be intolerable for us and many of our colleagues in Congress is the renewed outbreak of violence and the death of innocent Ethiopians?. EPRDF endorses resolution not to negotiate with opposition parties Addis Ababa, (WIC) - The EPRDF Council today endorsed the resolution earlier passed by the Executive Committee of the Front not to negotiate with opposition parties which do not respect the law and to take appropriate measures to enforce the law whenever necessary. According to the Spokesperson of the Council, it also approved the policy of the committee to hold dialogue on various issues if the parties abide by the law The meeting also evaluated the six-month performance report on the nation-wide election held for the third time in a democratic way and gained credence by the public. It noted that the election was described as free and fair by the Election Observer mission of the African Union and the Carter Center thus ascertaining that it is a big democratic gain. The council also appreciated the decision by the executive committee denouncing the violent intents of the opposition aimed at breaking the law under the pretext of election irregularities and stated the re-run elections held in a free and democratic manner proved EPRDF to be the winner. The council further passed decisions that the new parliament as well as regional councils hold their founding meetings and form a government for the coming five years in accordance with the schedule set by the government. It finally declared that the government, as per the commitment it has made, should further strengthen the good governance and development endeavors so as to ensure the benefits of the public. UEDF, CUD CANCEL STAY-AT-HOME STRIKE, EXPRESS COMMITMENT TO PRESS AHEAD THROUGH DEMOCRATIC, PARLIAMENTARY PROCESS Addis Ababa, (ENA) - Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD) and United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF) have cancelled their stay-at-home strike announced earlier on Saturday and expressed commitment to press ahead through a democratic and parliamentary process. CUD and UEDF announced their decision later on Saturday. Charge d'Affaires with the U.S Embassy in Ethiopia Ambassador Vicky Huddleston said that Prime Minister Meles Zenawi has agreed to talks with the opposition based on their commitment. The joint statement CUD and UEDF issued said, We have been in continual contact with several ambassadors and they have also been in contact with the Prime Minister. As a result of these discussions we have cancelled our stay at home strike announced earlier today. We are committing ourselves to press for our objectives through a democratic and parliamentary process, the statement said. We understand that based on the talks of the international community with Prime Minister Meles and our declaration, the talks will begin as early as tomorrow, (and) we believe this advances the democratic process in a peaceful and constructive manner. In a statement read at the occasion, Ambassadors Huddleston and British Ambassador to Ethiopia Bob Dewar said that based on this commitment of the CUD and UEDF, the Prime Minister has agreed to talks with the opposition beginning as early as Sunday (October 2, 2005). They congratulated the ruling party and the opposition on what they said is a courageous initiative. October 03,2005 Harari State holds founding conference Harar, [WIC] - The founding conference of the Harari State, which began today, has endorsed the nomination of the State's Chief and Deputy Administrators as well as other appointees. The Council has unanimously endorsed the nomination of Murad Abdulhadin as Chief Administrator, and Regassa Kefyalew as Deputy Administrator of the State. Also were appointed Abdulmalik Beker as Speaker, and Muktar Ali as Deputy Speaker. Elias Yahya was elected as President of the State's Supreme Court. The Council next approved the nominations of Bureau heads proposed by the Chief Administrator. Accordingly, the former Chief Administrator of the State, Fuad Ibrahim, was appointed Education and Capacity Building Bureau head, along with other heads. Speaking at the conclusion of the sworn-in ceremony, the new Chief Administrator, Murad Abdulhadin said development works, poverty reduction, good governance and decentralization endeavors will be further consolidated. ======================================== pol.ethiopia Sept.4,2005 ============================== __________________________________ Yahoo! Mail - PC Magazine Editors' Choice 2005 http://mail.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Wed Oct 5 14:50:45 2005 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Wed May 23 11:06:16 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20051005125045.85999.qmail@web53309.mail.yahoo.com> October 04, 2005 Ethiopian Democratic Union distances itself from UEDF Addis Ababa, (WIC) - The Audit and Control Committee of the Ethiopian Democratic Union (EDU) said on Saturday that it has dissociated itself from the United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF), Iftin, a bi-weekly Amharic reported. According to the statement issued by the Committee, EDU has temporarily severed its relations with the umbrella party, the United Ethiopian Democratic Forces, and would soon elect its leaders, the paper added. The Committee has accused the leader of the EDU, Derje Kebede in particular, of embezzling materials donated for the recent elections. It also blamed UEDF for failing to respond positively to the repeated requests it made to solve the problem of the party. It again stated that none of the candidates of the thirty-year old party was elected in the third national election owing to their preoccupation in corrupt practices and misappropriation of funds. According to the Audit and Control Committee of the party, the leaders have consistently failed to respond to their letters requesting to conduct auditing. They have instead passed the documents of other party and claimed to have lost it, Iftin said quoting their statement. The main office of EDU was therefore sealed off for an indefinite period to salvage the party and until a decision is reached on individuals who have destructive motives, the Committee reportedly said. Javier Solana says only path laid in constitution provides way for democracy in Ethiopia Addis Ababa, October 04, 2005 (WIC) - Javier Solana, EU High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy, on Saturday noted that ?only the path laid down in the Constitution, which provides for the convening of a new Council of People?s Representative (HPR) wherein the rights of all are respected, will allow for democracy to be established in Ethiopia in an enduring manner.? According to ?Ethio-Index? website, the High Representative has welcomed the meeting that took place on 2 October in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, between the Ethiopian authorities and the Opposition. In a telephone conversation he had on 1 October with Prime Minister Meles Zenawi, the High Representative emphasized the opportunity such a meeting would create in order to help resume dialogue and to offer a perspective whereby the parties would be able to settle the differences that had emerged subsequent to the general elections of 15 May 2005. Solana also urged all Ethiopian parties to continue to exercise restraint. CUD retracts October 3 statement Addis Ababa (ENA) - Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD) says it retracts its statement made on October 3,2005 which makes it seem that Prime Minister Meles Zenawi initiated the dialogue. In a statement it issued on Tuesday the CUD says, We wish to clearly state our commitment to our Saturday October 1, 2005 statement and retract the statement made on October 3, 2005 that the Prime Minister initiated the dialogue, rather it was initiated by the international community. The CUD would like to state that we stand by our joint statement of Saturday October 1, 2005. On the basis of that statement we have committed ourselves to peaceful and legal action and pursue our objectives through the democratic and parliamentary process, the Statement signed by Birtukan Mideksa, First Deputy Chairman of the CUD says. It says, We recognize that the statement of October 1, 2005 was a necessary undertaking by the CUD for the start of the dialogue. CUD made the statement in the presence of U.S. Charge d Affaires Vicky Huddleston, and UK Ambassador to Ethiopia Bob Dewar. Meanwhile, after CUD made the above statement of deletion, the dialogue between the three parties, EPRDF, CUD and UEDF, has commenced on Tuesday. The parties discussed on procedure of the dialogue, which went on in a constructive spirit, the parties affirmed. The parties agreed to continue the dialogue on Wednesday. ===================================== Pol.ethiopia Oct.5,2005 ==================== __________________________________ Yahoo! Mail - PC Magazine Editors' Choice 2005 http://mail.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Mon Oct 10 14:52:17 2005 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Wed May 23 11:06:16 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20051010125217.11908.qmail@web53315.mail.yahoo.com> October 08, 2005 Opposition parties quit negotiations with the ruling EPRDF Addis Ababa, (WIC) - The Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD) and United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF) have discontinued the recent negotiations blaming the ruling EPRDF for being not willing to include additional agendas to the eight agendas agreed upon. In a joint statement they gave late on Friday evening, the executives of the two parties said the refusal of EPRDF to include additional agendas other than those agreed upon , which they consider a precondition, has forced them to pull out of the discussion. They said the respect for the ''stolen votes'' and the formation of National Unity Transitional Government were the agendas they proposed to be included in the discussion, but rejected by EPRDF. They also said the EPRDF was unwilling to accept agendas on issues of reconsidering the results of the national elections endorsed by the National Electoral Board of Ethiopia and re-organization of legal institutions, including the board. The movement of the defense and police forces in urban areas was also the agendas proposed by opposition parties for discussion but EPRDF rejected it saying it would not negotiate the issue of defense and police, as it is the issue of safeguarding the constitution and national security. Asked as to what measures they would take after quitting the discussion, the executives said they would pursue peaceful struggle. Regarding the joining or boycotting the federal parliament, they said the issue of joining the parliament is yet to be decided .CUD has scheduled to reach decision on Saturday. It was to be recalled that CUD and UEDF said they had agreed with the EPRDF that the discussion was conducted in a constructive spirit, while pointing out they had reached agreement on eight agendas and rules of engagement in the joint statement they gave on October 25, 2005. The agendas in which EPRDF, CUD and UEDF had reached agreement for discussion, include, among others, accountability to the constitution of the country, refraining from violent activities, respect the supremacy of the law and abiding by the constitution. Addis City Administration CUD holds talks Addis Ababa, ENA - The Addis Ababa City Provisional Ad-ministration said it held talks with the Coalition of the Unity and Democracy (CUD) here yesterday. In a statement it sent to ENA yesterday, the Administration said it has finalized preparation to hand over power to the winning party, CUD. However, it said, the CUD has been requested to disclose its position whether it will join in the city and federal parliaments. The Statement said the representatives of CUD said during the discussion that the issue of joining the federal parliament has not yet been decided and that it is under discussion. Accordingly, the two sides reached consensus to discuss the issue as soon as CUD reaches final decisions, as it would be impossible to settle the subject in question for the time being, the statement said. The discussion was held in accordance with the request made by CUD, it said. Five Cabinet Members including City Mayor Arkebe Ekubay and five executive of the CUD Including Dr. Admasu Gebeyehu as well as Deputy Head of the National Electoral Board of Ethiopia Tesfaye Mengesha attended the discussion between the two sides. October 09,2005 ONC says it will never overlooks forces against rights, privileges of Oromo people Addis Ababa, ENA -As there is no the Oromo National Congress (ONC) under Dr. Merera Gudina, the Oromo National Congress will never overlook those individuals and groups who promote their benefits at the expense of the rights and privileges of the Oromo people, ONC Provisional Secretary said. Bona Tadesse told ENA late on Saturday that the central committee of the congress said that there is no any representative of the ONC at the United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF) during its meeting held on September 25, 2005. Some 38 of the 39 members of the ONC who won the election will join the parliament due to be formed next Monday. Bona said though, the ONC had previously announced that Dr. Merera Gudina would not represent the congress on any forum, he had taken part in the discussion held recently between EPRDF, CUD and EPRDF. The congress has been working by designing its own strategy like other political parties in the country, the Provisional Secretary said. He said ONC will form unity with other Oromo organizations, but never with other forces were oppressing the Oromo people. Oromia State council concluded, elects members of Federation council Adama, - The founding conference of the Oromia State council was concluded after electing members of the Federation council and establishing various committees. The founding conference concluded on Saturday has elected President and vice President of the State Council as well as 19 members of the Federation council. The conference has also decided with majority votes to lift immunity of members the Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD), who refused to join the newly established council until the next conference. It was also indicated that only six of the 33 CUD members who won the May 15 election joined the State Council so far. Moreover, the assembly has unanimously approved the agenda forwarded by Speaker of the State Council, Dr. Mohammed Hassen for the establishment of six standing committees. Accordingly, the State Council will have administration and security, Industry and town development, budget and finance, women and public organization as well as social affairs standing committees. Some 10 representatives of opposition political parties have been included in the committees. The Speaker said establishment of the standing committees is needed for the realization of government policies with the participation of the public. Majority MPs registered for inaugural conference Addis Ababa, (WIC)- Registration of MPs who would attend the inaugural conference of the House of Peoples Representatives has reportedly been underway up until today. According to the Information and Public Relations Department of the HPR, 44 members of the UEDF, including the leaders Dr. Beyene Petros and Dr. Merea Gudaina, and six CUD members were registered. Also were registered 10 members of the Oromo Federalist Democratic Movement, it said. It is to be recalled that the ruling party EPRDF has won 327 seats in the HPR, while the CUD secured 109 seats and UEDF 52. The Somali People Democratic Party won 24 seats and OFDM 11 seats. October 10,2005 HPR re-elects Meles Zenawi as Prime Minister Addis Ababa, (WIC)-The inaugural conference of the House of Peoples Representatives (HPR), which began this morning, has re-elected Meles Zenawi as Prime Minister for the coming five years. The HPR also elected Teshome Toga as Speaker and Shitaye Minale Deputy Speaker. The House will reconvene its session tomorrow morning, it was learnt. According to the latest statistics obtained from the HPR, 44 members of United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF) and six members of Coalition for Unity and Democracy as well as the winning party, EPRDF, attended the opening session. The inaugural session was held in the presence of foreign dignitaries, religious leaders and other invited guests. Meanwhile, the founding conference of the Addis Ababa Administration was not convened as scheduled today as members of the winning party, CUD, failed to show up. The National Electoral Board of Ethiopia had called for the convening of the first session this morning, it was learnt. ======================================= Polethiopia Oct. 10,2005 =============================== __________________________________ Yahoo! Music Unlimited Access over 1 million songs. Try it free. http://music.yahoo.com/unlimited/ From polethiopia at yahoo.com Fri Oct 14 08:49:41 2005 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Wed May 23 11:06:16 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20051014064942.3896.qmail@web53310.mail.yahoo.com> October 11, 2005 HPR revokes immunity of MPs, endorses appointment of cabinet members Addis Ababa (WIC)- The House of Peoples? Representatives (HPR) today revoked the immunity of MPs who did not take up their seats at the parliament and boycotted the founding conference of the Addis Ababa administration, and approved a new cabinet of ministers proposed by the Prime Minister. The House was told that the elect MPs who boycotted the parliament and the founding conference of the Addis Ababa administration have been openly advocating and working to overthrow the government. As this stands against the constitution revoking their immunity would thus protect life and ensure stability, Meles said. Following a lengthy debate, the HPR finally decided to revoke their immunity and gave mandate to the existing provisional administration of the Addis Ababa administration to continue administering the city as the wining party, CUD, has failed to take over its responsibilities. Earlier, the House of Peoples? Representatives endorsed the appointment of a new cabinet comprising 20 members. The appointment of the ministers was approved by a majority vote after the Prime Minister submitted the list of the candidates to the House. Accordingly, the following were appointed by the HPR. 1.Addisu Legesse....... .Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development 2.Tefera Walwa......... .Minister of Capacity Building 3.Dr. Sintayehu Woldemikael..... Minister of Education 4.Girma Biru....... ...... .Minister of Trade and Industry 5.Junedi Sado....... . ....Minister of Transport and Communications 6.Dr. Kasu Ilala.... .. .. .Minister of Works and Urban Development 7.Sufian Ahmed..... ....Minister Finance and Economic Development 8.Melaku Fenta.. .. ....Minister of Revenue 9. Siraj Fegeta........ ...... Minister of Federal Affairs 10. Dr.Tewodros Adhanom .. Minister of Health 11. Assefa Keseto.. . .......Minister of Justice 12. Kuma Demekesa. .....Minister of Defense 13. Seyoum Mesfin.. .......Minister of Foreign Affairs 14. Berhan Hailu..... ...... Minister of Information 15. Asefaw Dingam... ..Minister of Water Resources 16. Aster Mamo..... ........ Minister of Youth and Sports 17. Hirut Dilebo.... .....Minister of Women?s Affairs 18. Mahmud Dirir. ...... .Minister of Culture and Tourism 19. Alemayehu Tegenu .....Minister Mines and Energy 20. Hassen Abdella... .... Minister of Labor and Social Affairs. 21. Shiferaw Jarsso................. Minister without portfolio and Party chair In a related development, Prime Minister Meles Zenawi has also informed the HPR about the appointment of the following State Ministers. 1- State Ministers of Capacity Building Fikru Desalegn Belete Negeeso 2- State Ministers of Education Dr. Adhana Haile Wondewosen Kiflu Fuad Ibrahim 3- State Ministers of Trade and Industry Tadesse Haile Mohammed Tussa 4- State Ministers of Agriculture and Rural Development Dr. Abera Deressa Ahmed Nasir Yacob Yana 5- State Minister of Transport and Communications Getachew Mengiste 6- State Minister of Works and Urban Development Arkeb Equbay 7- State Ministers of Finance and Economic Development Mekonnen Manyazewal Ambassador Brehanu Kebede Mamo Getu 8- State Minister of Revenue Tezera Wodadjo 9- State Minister of Federal Affairs Maeregu Hailemariam 10- State Minister of Health Dr. Kebede Worku 11- State Ministers of Justice Dr. Hashim Tofik Simegn Wubie 12- State Ministers of Defense General Haile Tilahun Sultan Mohammed Kasahun Dendir 13- State Ministers of Foreign Affairs Dr. Tekeda Alemu Nega Tsegaye 14- State Minister of Information Tesema Fotee 15- State Minister of Water Resources Adugna Jebessa 16- State Minister of Youth and Sports Abdissa Yadeta 17- ,State Minister of Women?s Affairs Uboh Mohammed Hussein 18- State Ministers of Culture and Tourism Tadelech Dalecha Mohamed Ge?as 19- State Minister of Mines and Energy Sinkenesh Ijigu 20- State Ministers of Labor and Social Affairs Zenebu Tadesse Mohammed Maadin Ali Authority transfers five government owned enterprises to private holdings Addis Ababa, October 11,2005 (WIC) - The Privatization and Public Enterprise Supervising Authority disclosed that it has transferred five government owned enterprises to private holdings in various ways. At a handing over ceremony of the Gulele Garment factory yesterday the Authority stated that it is transferring government owned enterprises through management contract, joint venture and selling as well as returning them to their previous owners. Accordingly, the Gulele Garment factory and Mojo Tannery were sold, while the Nifas Silk yarn factory was returned to the owner. The Ethiopian Tannery was given in management contract, while the Dire Dawa Cement factory was transferred to a joint venture. The Gulele Garment factory was reportedly sold for 1.9 million birr to a private company. ================================ Pol.ethiopia Oct. 14,2005 ======================== __________________________________ Yahoo! Mail - PC Magazine Editors' Choice 2005 http://mail.yahoo.com From abelay2003 at yahoo.com Mon Oct 10 18:51:35 2005 From: abelay2003 at yahoo.com (Alem Belay) Date: Wed May 23 11:06:17 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] Re: Pol.ethiopia digest, Vol 1 #1177 - 4 msgs In-Reply-To: <20051010130301.26783.10744.Mailman@sangonet1> Message-ID: <20051010165136.27070.qmail@web30813.mail.mud.yahoo.com> Hello, A lot of discussion has been going on regarding the newly changed rules in the Ethiopian Parliament. However, all these discussions seem to be taking place in the absence of the actual rules for reference... old or new. Could someone be kind and send both rules so that things can be clarified, please? Thank you, Alem pol.ethiopia-request@lists.sn.apc.org wrote: Send Pol.ethiopia mailing list submissions to pol.ethiopia@lists.sn.apc.org To subscribe or unsubscribe via the World Wide Web, visit http://lists.sn.apc.org/mailman/listinfo/pol.ethiopia or, via email, send a message with subject or body 'help' to pol.ethiopia-request@lists.sn.apc.org You can reach the person managing the list at pol.ethiopia-admin@lists.sn.apc.org When replying, please edit your Subject line so it is more specific than "Re: Contents of Pol.ethiopia digest..." Today's Topics: 1. News Items (Political Ethiopia) 2. News Items (Political Ethiopia) 3. News Items (Political Ethiopia) 4. News Items (Political Ethiopia) --__--__-- Message: 1 Date: Fri, 30 Sep 2005 05:50:21 -0700 (PDT) From: Political Ethiopia To: pol.ethiopia@lists.sn.apc.org Cc: scem@haven.eyrie.org Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items September 30, 2005 UEDF, CUD say Sunday's demonstration postponed for another time Addis Ababa, (ENA) - The United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF) and the Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD) announced on Thursday that they have postponed for unspecified time the demonstration they had scheduled for this Sunday. At a joint press conference they gave on Thursday, executive members of the CUD and UEDF pointed out that the political tension has mounted high and they have decided to postpone the October 2 demonstration saying the government and EPRDF have not allowed them to do so. The executive members said they have not been able to gather their supporters from various regional states, and added that the government demanded them to present a guarantee that they would hold the demonstration in the spirit of the Constitution and accepting the results of the election. The parties said EPRDF and the government have unlawfully denied their legal rights and urged the public to await for another round of call which, they said, they would make in the future. They said they would announce their alternative options other than the demonstration for the public. The parties also said they would hold consultations and issue statements addressing their members and supporters on October 3, 2005 concerning the demonstration and other related matters. Justice and Legal Affairs Head with the Addis Ababa City Administration, Woldetensae Woldemelak said the parties were asked to provide guarantee to abide by Article 9 of the Constitution. However, he added, the parties have not responded to the demand. The Administration has made the demand based on various newspaper reports suggesting that the demonstration may not be peaceful and with a view to making sure that it would not be against the Constitutional system. Meles holds talks with Secretary General of World Council of Churches Addis Ababa, (ENA) - Prime Minister Meles Zenawi held talks with Secretary General of the World Council of Churches Dr. Samuel Kobi here on Wednesday. Prime Minister Meles Zenawi on the occasion expressed that he felt honored to confer with the delegation led by Dr. Kobi. Prime Minister Meles briefed the delegation about current regional issues as well as about the recently held national elections in Ethiopia. Dr. Kobi on his part expressed his appreciation to Prime Minister Meles for having been playing significant roles for Africa. Dr. Kobi appreciated Meles for his significant roles in the Sudan peace process through IGAD as well as in his efforts as one of the Commissioners of the Commission for Africa to alleviate poverty in Africa. Dr. Kobi told journalists that he took it upon himself to visit Ethiopia to get a first-hand knowledge and experience of Ethiopia, the only African country as founding member of the World Council of Churches. He said during his visit he have seen a wide-range of development activities being carried out in the country. Commenting on election-related issues, Dr. Kobi said the oppositions boycotting parliament might lead the country to clashes and indicated the need for the government and religious institutions to make employ all options to prevent this looming danger. Dr. Kobi said he was informed by Prime Minister Meles that the government had held discussions with the oppositions and will carry on with its efforts to safeguard the constitution and the peace and security of citizens. Dr. Kobi pledged that the World Council of Churches will do everything possible to help diffuse tension. EOC Holy Synod deplores attempted violence at Demera celebration Addis Ababa, ENA - Ethiopian Orthodox Church (EOC) has strongly denounced the attempted violence amidst Demera celebrations on September 26, dubbing the act as un-religious and unethical. Office of EOC's Holy Synod, in a statement it gave on Wednesday in connection with the attempted violence at the Meskel Square, said the violence was targetted against all Christians. The attempted violence came about to the vexation of the Church and such an act could not go without tarnishing Ethiopia's good image in this age-long and unique religious tradition of the Church, the statement said. The annual celebration is Ethiopia's unique tradition acclaimed worldwide, but which, along with the people of the country known for their strong sense of descipline, is exposed to redicule due to such blatant acts committed by ndividuals taken by wickedness, the statement said. The Church advised the faithful to maintain their religious tradition and laws, to stand firm for peace and to keep from sacrelige. It said, the attempted violence was orchestrated in a bid to advance hidden agenda by making use of religion as a pretext. It said all citizens should recognize this and keep from involvement in such acts. It said the Church deplores all those who, in their bid to solicit the Church's partisanship for themselves, so wrongly and deliberately paints it as partisan. This it said should be known by all Ethiopians living inside or outside the country. It urged the government to discharge its responsibility of preventing any such acts in the Church's Holy Days. The Patriarch His Holiness Abune Paulos on his part said he lamented what he saw and heard - an act of sacrelige which has never been encountered in the country. He said the act was targetted against the faithful, and it will be the faithful themselves who will remonstrate against such evil. ================================== Pol.ethiopia Sep.30,2005 ========================== __________________________________ Yahoo! Mail - PC Magazine Editors' Choice 2005 http://mail.yahoo.com --__--__-- Message: 2 Date: Tue, 4 Oct 2005 00:56:45 -0700 (PDT) From: Political Ethiopia To: pol.ethiopia@lists.sn.apc.org Cc: scem@haven.eyrie.org Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items October 01, 2005 CUD top official says CUD, UEDF will devise more effective strategies against strategies against gov't Police say hand grenades found at CUD office Addis Ababa, ENA/WIC - Notwithstanding Thursday?s decision of CUD and UEDF suspending the demonstration they had planned for tomorrow, they would carry on with the struggle through other forthcoming strategies, which would have put greater pressure on the incumbent government and which would highly be effective, says CUD First Deputy Chairperson Bertukan Mideksa. In an interview with Ethiopian Review Website on Thursday, Bertukan said the city government disallowed the planned demonstration demanding unconditional acceptance from the parties of the constitution and officially announced results of the May national elections. She said, the parties had been preparing for the demonstration on big-scale. Now we know the demonstration is not going to take place. This decision of us could well have been said ill-advised, if we had not been prepared for an alternative decision. We will hold a series of discussions shortly to come up with more effective strategies for peaceful struggle. The constitution reserves the rights of citizens to hold demonstrations and the legal procedure to do so is by submitting an application bearing date and venue of any planned mass rally. This CUD and UEDF tried jointly to submit. In the process, we were made to suffer many inconveniences, she said. In the end we were barred from holding the demonstration as they (the authorities) demanded that we accept the constitution and the election results unconditionally. This led to CUD and UEDF to decide to defer the demonstration, she said. The constitution under Article 9/1 stipulates that the constitution is the supreme law of the land and any law whether statutory or traditional; and any decision by a government body or official would not be legally applicable, if they contradict the content of the constitution. Sub-article 3 prohibits any move to take over power through unconstitutional means. In due consideration of the foregoing and other relevant constitutional stipulations, the pertinent body with the Addis Ababa City Government had requested that CUD and UEDF clearly state in written form their unequivocal acceptance of the constitution and the results of the election before they could get permit for the demonstration, which was said to have been organized with the intent to create unrest and violence. It is to be recalled that the Justice and Legal Affairs Bureau stated that the foregoing request was only made to receive the assurances of the parties that the demonstration would not contravene the constitution. Meanwhile, the would-be mayor of Addis Ababa, Dr. Berhanu Nega, and 101 elects of the city administration and members of the CUD have reportedly failed to agree on assignments of individual elects as most of them wanted to secure jobs in the new administration. According to Iftin, a biweekly Amharic newspaper, the recent four-hour long meeting was tense because the would-be mayor declared that those elects who are not given jobs as per their qualifications and experiences, but insist on being given jobs for reasons that they were fired or do not have earnings can right away resign from the council. He said those not assigned in the executive body would attend the regular meetings to be held in two months. The statement, according to the paper, infuriated some members who claimed that they were promised jobs and even one member threatened to resign. Dr. Berhanu however aggressively reiterated his position and similarly threatened to give up his position if the incompetent fill posts as in the past administration. Deliberating on the planned October 2 demonstration called by UEDF and CUD, though the members finally agreed to cool the mood of the ?people? in cooperation with the government, some said the residents have prepared machetes, daggers and weapons to be used during the demonstration. They even doubted whether the CUD could prevail on the zealots. But Dr. Berhanu insisted that it is up to the leadership to show their leading role, Iftin reported citing insiders. Meanwhile, the Dire Dawa Police Commission said yesterday that two bombs were found in the premises of the office of CUD. Police reacting from a tip off conducted a search yesterday morning on the premises of the CUD office, where they found two hand grenades, acting Commissioner Commander Yemane Mengistu told ENA. Also found during the search was a written statement showing who?s possession the grenades were as well as when and for what purpose they were kept hidden, he said. Four CUD members suspected of connection with the case were brought to custody as further investigation went on. Police will made public the results of the investigation, he said. Ambassador Huddleston says May 15 election created Ethiopia's first ever multi-party parliament Addis Ababa, ENA - The Charge?d? Affaires of the U.S. Embassy to Ethiopia, Ambassador Vicki Huddleston, said the May 15, 2005 national elections has given the Ethiopian people their first ever multi-party parliament. Speaking at a media round-table discussion yesterday at the premises of the American Embassy, Ambassador Huddleston said that the recent Ethiopian election should be a win-win situation where the EPRDF has won a majority of parliament seats to form the next government, while the oppositions won 170 seats. Citing the U.S government?s statement of September 16,2005, Ambassador Huddleston said that the elections stand out as a milestone in creating a new, more competitive multi-party political system in one of Africa?s largest and most important countries. ?We call on all newly elected members of parliament to take their seats, and serve under Ethiopia?s constitution, ?Charge?d? Affaires said. ?I believe that the Ethiopian people have spoken,? She said, and added ?the only way that democracy and the will of the people will prevail is if all elected representatives respect the constitutional process and do their best to represent their constituents in the new multi-party parliament.? Ambassador Huddleston also indicated the desire of the U.S government to work impartially with the elected government and with all parties in a bid to craft a solution to outstanding issues resulting from the election. October 2, 2005 US Congress urges elected opposition MPS to take seats in parliament Addis Ababa, (WIC) - The United States Congress has urged the elected opposition parliament members ''to take their seats because it is essential for the sake of all Ethiopians that the government and the opposition take steps to reduce growing tension''. A letter addressed to Prime Minister Meles Zenawi and the leaders of CUD and UEDF stated that, ?The opposition parties had far more opportunity to make their case and the turnout was truly impressive?. It said the people of Ethiopia proclaimed clearly and loudly to the world that they want to live in democracy and peace under the rule of the law. The Congress in its letter insisted that all participants in the electoral process demonstrate patience and restraint and opposition parties should pursue any legitimate arguments concerning contested seats in the High Court. Citizens need to exercise their freedom of speech and freedom of assembly, but any demonstration should attempt to obtain legal sanction and should be carried out peacefully, the letter added. The statement of the Congress said, ?The one development that would be intolerable for us and many of our colleagues in Congress is the renewed outbreak of violence and the death of innocent Ethiopians?. EPRDF endorses resolution not to negotiate with opposition parties Addis Ababa, (WIC) - The EPRDF Council today endorsed the resolution earlier passed by the Executive Committee of the Front not to negotiate with opposition parties which do not respect the law and to take appropriate measures to enforce the law whenever necessary. According to the Spokesperson of the Council, it also approved the policy of the committee to hold dialogue on various issues if the parties abide by the law The meeting also evaluated the six-month performance report on the nation-wide election held for the third time in a democratic way and gained credence by the public. It noted that the election was described as free and fair by the Election Observer mission of the African Union and the Carter Center thus ascertaining that it is a big democratic gain. The council also appreciated the decision by the executive committee denouncing the violent intents of the opposition aimed at breaking the law under the pretext of election irregularities and stated the re-run elections held in a free and democratic manner proved EPRDF to be the winner. The council further passed decisions that the new parliament as well as regional councils hold their founding meetings and form a government for the coming five years in accordance with the schedule set by the government. It finally declared that the government, as per the commitment it has made, should further strengthen the good governance and development endeavors so as to ensure the benefits of the public. UEDF, CUD CANCEL STAY-AT-HOME STRIKE, EXPRESS COMMITMENT TO PRESS AHEAD THROUGH DEMOCRATIC, PARLIAMENTARY PROCESS Addis Ababa, (ENA) - Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD) and United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF) have cancelled their stay-at-home strike announced earlier on Saturday and expressed commitment to press ahead through a democratic and parliamentary process. CUD and UEDF announced their decision later on Saturday. Charge d'Affaires with the U.S Embassy in Ethiopia Ambassador Vicky Huddleston said that Prime Minister Meles Zenawi has agreed to talks with the opposition based on their commitment. The joint statement CUD and UEDF issued said, We have been in continual contact with several ambassadors and they have also been in contact with the Prime Minister. As a result of these discussions we have cancelled our stay at home strike announced earlier today. We are committing ourselves to press for our objectives through a democratic and parliamentary process, the statement said. We understand that based on the talks of the international community with Prime Minister Meles and our declaration, the talks will begin as early as tomorrow, (and) we believe this advances the democratic process in a peaceful and constructive manner. In a statement read at the occasion, Ambassadors Huddleston and British Ambassador to Ethiopia Bob Dewar said that based on this commitment of the CUD and UEDF, the Prime Minister has agreed to talks with the opposition beginning as early as Sunday (October 2, 2005). They congratulated the ruling party and the opposition on what they said is a courageous initiative. October 03,2005 Harari State holds founding conference Harar, [WIC] - The founding conference of the Harari State, which began today, has endorsed the nomination of the State's Chief and Deputy Administrators as well as other appointees. The Council has unanimously endorsed the nomination of Murad Abdulhadin as Chief Administrator, and Regassa Kefyalew as Deputy Administrator of the State. Also were appointed Abdulmalik Beker as Speaker, and Muktar Ali as Deputy Speaker. Elias Yahya was elected as President of the State's Supreme Court. The Council next approved the nominations of Bureau heads proposed by the Chief Administrator. Accordingly, the former Chief Administrator of the State, Fuad Ibrahim, was appointed Education and Capacity Building Bureau head, along with other heads. Speaking at the conclusion of the sworn-in ceremony, the new Chief Administrator, Murad Abdulhadin said development works, poverty reduction, good governance and decentralization endeavors will be further consolidated. ======================================== pol.ethiopia Sept.4,2005 ============================== __________________________________ Yahoo! Mail - PC Magazine Editors' Choice 2005 http://mail.yahoo.com --__--__-- Message: 3 Date: Wed, 5 Oct 2005 05:50:45 -0700 (PDT) From: Political Ethiopia To: pol.ethiopia@lists.sn.apc.org Cc: SCEM@haven.eyrie.org Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items October 04, 2005 Ethiopian Democratic Union distances itself from UEDF Addis Ababa, (WIC) - The Audit and Control Committee of the Ethiopian Democratic Union (EDU) said on Saturday that it has dissociated itself from the United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF), Iftin, a bi-weekly Amharic reported. According to the statement issued by the Committee, EDU has temporarily severed its relations with the umbrella party, the United Ethiopian Democratic Forces, and would soon elect its leaders, the paper added. The Committee has accused the leader of the EDU, Derje Kebede in particular, of embezzling materials donated for the recent elections. It also blamed UEDF for failing to respond positively to the repeated requests it made to solve the problem of the party. It again stated that none of the candidates of the thirty-year old party was elected in the third national election owing to their preoccupation in corrupt practices and misappropriation of funds. According to the Audit and Control Committee of the party, the leaders have consistently failed to respond to their letters requesting to conduct auditing. They have instead passed the documents of other party and === message truncated === --------------------------------- Yahoo! Music Unlimited - Access over 1 million songs. Try it free. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://lists.sn.apc.org/pipermail/pol.ethiopia/attachments/20051010/d6ad6ed5/attachment-0002.htm