The Ethiopian House of People’s Representatives (HoPR), the lower house of parliament, approved a new property restitution law on Thursday.
The approval came after parliament examined the bill and took into account the report and recommendations presented to it by the Standing Committee on Legal Affairs and Justice. After extensive deliberations, the bill was passed by an overwhelming majority.
The newly approved law establishes mechanisms to return illegally acquired property, ensure accountability and close legal loopholes that have thus far hampered restitution efforts.
According to Standing Committee Secretary Ezegnet Mengistu, the committee presented a report detailing the modifications and additional provisions incorporated in the final draft before its submission for approval.
The committee emphasized that its review process involved extensive stakeholder consultations, including public discussions and expert forums, to gather comprehensive input before finalizing the bill.
The Property Restitution Act aims to close legal loopholes in the recovery of misappropriated public and government assets, hold accountable those who illegally profit from stolen assets, and support national development by ensuring that public wealth is protected and used responsibly. appropriate manner.
The law aims to strengthen anti-corruption efforts, enabling the recovery of illegally obtained national assets and preventing financial crimes.
MG/as/fss/Sf/teAPA
