Addis Ababa, November 28, 2025 (FMC) – President Taye Atske Selassie today underscored the imperative for African nations to build and implement strong constitutional systems that uphold the rule of law, ensure accountability, and protect the rights of their people.
Addressing the 4th International Symposium of the Conference of Constitutional Jurisdictions of Africa (CCJA) in Addis Ababa, the President stressed that constitutionalism must go beyond the mere enactment of laws. Robust constitutional frameworks, he said, are essential for establishing accountable governance and safeguarding fundamental rights.
He emphasized that the legitimacy of any government stems directly from the consent of the people, noting that constitutions play a decisive role in defining the distribution of power and guiding the proper exercise of state authority.
“The legitimacy that necessitates the wish and desire of the people is the very requisite for statute and the foundation of state building,” he stated.
Drawing on his experience in Ethiopia’s constitutional drafting commission, President Taye reflected on Ethiopia’s long pursuit of constitutional development. He highlighted that the current constitutional order aims to manage national diversity while strengthening unity under the rule of law.
The President firmly condemned the growing trend of unconstitutional changes of government across the continent, stressing that such actions threaten both the principles of constitutional governance and the African Union’s foundational act.
He called on African states to maintain a clear vision for a united and peaceful continent, asserting that constitutions must serve as the “soul of governance” and the anchor of unity among diverse societies. Only when institutions are grounded in justice and leaders are chosen by the will of citizens, he said, can Africa achieve the ambitious aspirations of Agenda 2063.
Speaking on behalf of the African Union Commission Chairperson, Ali Youssouf highlighted the indispensable role of independent courts in building stability and public trust. Respect for constitutions, he said, is central to this effort, as they serve as living agreements that embody fairness, justice, and mutual respect among citizens and institutions.
CCJA President Luke Malaba expressed optimism about Africa’s trajectory, urging confidence in the continent’s capacity for transformation. “Africa is making positive changes. We have to have faith in ourselves,” he affirmed. Malaba described the symposium as an opportunity to examine whether governments truly serve the interests of their citizens and called for constitutional reforms that are driven by Africans themselves.
He noted that the gathering aligns with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which promotes peace, unity, and prosperity, and represents a pivotal moment for collaboration among constitutional bodies across Africa through open dialogue and knowledge exchange.
Ethiopia’s Federal Supreme Court President and Head of the Council of Constitutional Inquiry, Tewodros Mihret, elaborated on the deep relationship between constitutionalism and state-building. Reinforcing the rule of law and protecting human rights, he said, are essential to accelerating Africa’s progress.
He stressed the vital function of constitutional courts in interpreting supreme laws, enforcing constitutional mandates, and preserving institutional stability even amid social challenges.
The international symposium, held under the theme “Constitutionalism and State Building in Africa,” will conclude on November 30, 2025.