• Ministry of Revenues reports hundreds of illegal checkpoints in Ethiopia.
• Aynalem Nigussie accuses regional administrations of law infractions.
• Duties and tolls from illegal checkpoints harm trade and increase prices.
• Deputy Commissioner Azezew Chanie identifies 237 illegal checkpoints nationwide.
• Over 19 billion Birr in contraband goods seized in recent months.

Ministry Officials Accuse Regional Authorities of Lawbreaking

Concerns Over Illegal Checkpoints on Ethiopian Roads Senior officials from the Ministry of Revenues and Customs Commission have recently voiced serious concerns regarding the proliferation of illegal security checkpoints throughout Ethiopia. During a presentation to lawmakers, Minister Aynalem Nigussie accused regional administrations of running hundreds of these unauthorized checkpoints, using them as a means to generate income as well as create jobs. The accusations made by these officials are shocking, alleging a blatant disregard for both national law and fairness in trade.

Exorbitant Toll Charges Hurt Local Businesses

Impact on Trade and Economy Azezew Chanie, the Deputy Customs Commissioner, shared alarming statistics with members of Parliament’s Planning, Budget, and Finance Committee. He indicated that his office has uncovered at least 237 illegal checkpoints, many of which are allegedly being managed by regional police and local militias. The dire situation is exacerbated by the hefty tolls being charged at these checkpoints, which are reportedly hindering both domestic and international trade, resulting in escalating prices for everyday commodities. Further investigation revealed that a staggering 19 billion Birr worth of contraband goods had been seized, alongside over 1,400 arrests linked to illegal trade activities.

Fiscal Challenges Amidst Enforcement Gaps

Call for Empowerment and Legislative Support Despite the significant actions taken, Azezew noted ongoing gaps in enforcement, urging the Parliament to empower the Commission to carry out independent investigations. The Ministry reported an impressive collection of 815 billion Birr over the past 11 months, with domestic taxes forming a substantial part at 436 billion Birr. The remaining 378 billion Birr was collected from duties, reflecting an ongoing effort to enhance fiscal responsibility. However, the unregulated tolls charged to heavy-duty truck drivers continue to spark outrage as they traverse various regional states or even different zones within the same state.

Urgent Need for Legislative Action and Accountability

Closing Thoughts on Governance and Corruption The situation exposes serious governance issues, raising questions about accountability at various administrative levels. While the Ministry’s revenue collection figures are promising, the prevalence of illegal checkpoints and the heavy tolls they impose present substantial risks to the economy and public trust. As the Ministry seeks legislative backing to tighten enforcement, the implications of these illegal operations can no longer be overlooked, demanding urgent attention from both regional and central authorities.

In summary, the alarming revelations concerning illegal checkpoints in Ethiopia, particularly their use by regional administrations as a revenue source, have drawn serious criticism from the Ministry of Revenues and Customs Commission. While significant sums are generated in tax revenues, the detrimental effects on trade, coupled with the need for stronger governance and enforcement measures, must be prioritized by lawmakers. A call for greater oversight and accountability is timely as the nation grapples with these pressing issues.