House of Federation working to bolster unity of nations, nationalities
sustainably resolve conflicts that arise between states and bolster the unity of nations and nationalities.
House Speaker Degife Bula told WIC today that efforts are underway to solve problems that emanate from border claims, pastureland and other related issues on the basis of the constitution by involving the state governments and the public.
It has passed decisions on 50 such cases which required constitutional interpretation over the years, he said.
He cited among those the border dispute between Oromia and Somali states, the quest for identity of the Silte people as examples.
States are in the meantime developing the culture of solving conflicts by themselves, the Speaker said,adding that the House is also creating a situation whereby they could jointly work for mutual benefits.
The House, in order to realize its mission of creating a single economic community, is also establishing nations and nationalities council forums where states can meet, Degife said, and added that similar activities would be carried out in the future as the recent forums in Jijjiga and Gambella have proved successful.
The nations and nationalities day, which was celebrated for the first time last year at national level, will also be celebrated this year in SNNP State, a home to a number of nations and nationalities,he stated.
According to Degife, the House is popularizing the constitution through the media and by offering training of trainers which will be intensified this year.
The Amharic, Oromiffa, Tigrigna, English and French versions of the constitutions were also published and kept in libraries of higher educational institutions and secondary schools so that students can use them as references for Civic and Ethical Education, he said.
The Speaker further indicated that it will redouble the experience sharing relations with federal governments so as to build up the capacity of members of the House and employees.
Senior officials of the country will participate in the conflict resolution and budget allocation meeting organized by the Forum For Federalism, he said, adding that they are expected to gain a lot of experience from the meeting.
