Ethiopian Lawmakers Approve Dual Proclamations on Information Rights and Sharia Court Reform

Addis Ababa, June 26, 2026 (FMC) — The House of People’s Representatives has unanimously approved amendments to the Freedom of Information Proclamation and the Federal Sharia Courts Proclamation during its 28th regular sitting of the fifth year of its tenure.

The House convened on Thursday to deliberate on legislative and oversight matters, including the 11-month performance report of the Ethiopian Institution of the Ombudsman for the 2018 fiscal year (2025/26).

Lawmakers also reviewed and adopted a report and recommendation of the Standing Committee on Democracy Affairs concerning the Freedom of Information Proclamation.

Presenting the committee’s findings, Chairperson Mr. Ewnetu Alene stated that the proclamation reinforces citizens’ constitutional right to access information, while also establishing a structured framework for the timely and efficient dissemination of public information. He further emphasized that the draft incorporates safeguards related to national security.

He urged the House to adopt the bill, noting that it had been carefully balanced to ensure both transparency and the protection of national interests.

Following deliberation, the House unanimously approved the amended Freedom of Information Proclamation, now registered as Proclamation No. 1427/2018.

In a separate session, lawmakers considered the report and proposal of the Standing Committee on Law and Justice Affairs regarding the Federal Sharia Courts Proclamation.

Committee Chairperson Ms. Etsegenet Mengistu stated that the amendment is expected to strengthen the justice system. She further explained that it provides for the establishment of a Federal Sharia Court of Appeals Chamber, thereby enhancing institutional capacity and expanding the courts’ operational scope.

The House subsequently approved the proclamation unanimously, which has been registered as Proclamation No. 18/2018.