On November 21, 2024, Ewnete Alene, Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Democratic Affairs at the House of People’s Representatives, emphasized the significance of the Draft Proclamation of Mass Media. The law, designed to establish a comprehensive governance framework, seeks to benefit Ethiopia’s people and contribute to national development by creating a balanced and accountable media environment.
The Ethiopian Media Authority, which has been instrumental in shaping the draft proclamation, stressed the importance of balancing media freedom with accountability. The draft law is designed not only to improve governance structures but also to promote a media sector that serves both the public and governmental interests while fostering the sector’s development.
In a public hearing organized by the Standing Committee, key stakeholders, including media organizations, professional associations, civil society groups, and legal experts, came together to discuss the proposed amendments. Yonatan Tesfaye, Deputy Director-General of the Ethiopian Media Authority, shared insights into why the current proclamation requires updating. He pointed out that the existing Media Diversity Proclamation, which was ratified two years ago, laid the foundation for the growth of media organizations and the establishment of a Media Council. However, its implementation revealed gaps in governance structures, board organization, and authority delegation, prompting the need for amendments.
The proposed amendments aim to address these gaps by enhancing the efficiency, effectiveness, and responsiveness of the Ethiopian Media Authority. Furthermore, the draft law focuses on bolstering the authority’s capacity for monitoring and execution, ensuring that the media sector operates effectively in the public’s best interest.
Participants in the consultation underscored the importance of protecting national security and promoting democratic progress. They called for mechanisms to safeguard democratic principles while preventing abuse within the media sector. Additionally, the need for stronger representation of media professionals and the public was emphasized to ensure media pluralism and independence.
In his remarks, Mohammed Idris, Director-General of the Ethiopian Media Authority, noted that the draft amendments are intended to build a robust executive institution and establish a balanced system of media independence and accountability. The revisions, he said, would prioritize public welfare and national security, creating an environment conducive to a vibrant and dynamic media landscape.
Ewnete Alene concluded the hearing by assuring participants that their feedback would be incorporated into the legislative process. Further input from stakeholders will be considered in upcoming discussions to refine the draft law, ensuring it fully addresses the identified gaps.
In conclusion, the proposed amendments to the Mass Media Proclamation aim to create a media environment that fosters freedom while ensuring accountability. By strengthening governance, the revised law will contribute to Ethiopia’s democratic institutions and national development.
