The International Press Institute is urging Ethiopian lawmakers to reject proposed amendments to media laws. These amendments threaten the independence of journalism by increasing government control over media regulation. Changes to the Ethiopian Media Authority’s board composition and decision-making powers could undermine media freedom, reverting gains made by the 2021 Media Proclamation, which decriminalized defamation.
The International Press Institute (IPI) has called for Ethiopian lawmakers to dismiss proposed amendments to media laws that pose a significant risk to independent journalism. These amendments threaten to undermine the positive advancements made by the 2021 Media Proclamation, which had decriminalized defamation and abolished pre-trial detention for media-related offenses. The new proposals could reestablish government control over media regulation disguised as improved administrative efficiency.
The draft legislation suggests altering the process for appointing board members to the Ethiopian Media Authority (EMA), centralizing power with the Prime Minister and eliminating conflict-of-interest regulations that prevent political party members from serving on the board. It would also dilute board representation by including members from various bodies without specific criteria. Previously, the board included diverse representatives from civil society and the media, enhancing its effectiveness.
Furthermore, decision-making authority regarding media licensing would shift from the board to the Authority, which raises concerns over checks and balances. The potential for arbitrary license suspensions, along with punitive measures against journalists, becomes more pronounced under these amendments. Dr. Marystella Simiyu, IPI’s Africa Senior Legal Advocacy Officer, emphasized the necessity of an independent regulatory body for media freedom.
Dr. Simiyu stated, “An independent regulatory body is indispensable to press freedom. Governments should therefore ensure the independence of media regulatory bodies, in line with their commitments to safeguard freedom of expression and media freedom as guaranteed under Article 19 of the International Covenant of Civil and Political Rights and Article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.” IPI adamantly urges legislative rejection of any amendments that threaten the media regulator’s independence and contravene international principles.
In conclusion, the proposed amendments to Ethiopia’s media laws could significantly jeopardize the independence of journalism and the media landscape. The IPI’s appeal to lawmakers underscores the importance of maintaining regulatory independence to uphold freedom of expression. Ensuring diverse representation and shielding the media from governmental overreach are critical to safeguarding democratic values in the country.
Original Source: hornobserver.com
