EHRC Condemns Forced Conscription Of Minors, Extortion In Oromia

Parliament calls for public nominations for Chief Commissioner post

An investigation by the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has revealed grave human and constitutional rights violations in the Oromia region, where children as young as 11 have been forcibly conscripted into regional militia.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the EHRC disclosed that its investigations uncovered widespread illegal recruitment practices and associated extortion in cities like Adama, Bishoftu, Jimma, and Shashemene.

The Commission conducted site visits, examined detention centers, and gathered testimonies from affected families.

EHRC’s report confirmed that children as young as 11 were forcibly conscripted. Families were pressured to pay significant sums—ranging from 20,000 to 100,000 Ethiopian Birr—to secure the release of their children.

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Testimonies exposed traumatic accounts of intimidation and exploitation. One victim recounted being abducted on their way home from school with promises of a 25,000 Birr reward for joining the military. In Shashemene, children were reportedly rounded up and detained in a convention hall, under the pretext of receiving military training.

The report also noted the detention of mentally-ill individuals who were subsequently released following interventions. The EHRC stated that Oromia regional officials, including the Peace and Security Bureau, admitted to flaws in the recruitment process.

The Commission emphasized that these practices were carried out by a combination of police, military personnel, and local militia forces, often targeting individuals during their daily activities.

One mother shared her ordeal, describing threats she received to pay 20,000 Birr for her 15-year-old son’s release. Failure to comply, she was told, would result in her child being sent to a military training camp. The EHRC condemned such practices as blatant abuses of power and called for immediate corrective action.

Acting Chief Commissioner Rakeb Messele issued a strong statement, demanding accountability for those responsible for these illegal activities. She urged the Oromia regional administration to investigate and prosecute those involved in forced conscription and bribery.

The EHRC recommended that future recruitment processes adhere strictly to defense standards and legal frameworks.

“The forced conscription of children and extortion of families are intolerable violations of human rights and must be addressed urgently,” Rakeb stated. She emphasized the need for immediate action to restore trust in government institutions and uphold the rule of law.

In a related development, Parliament has initiated the public nomination process for the EHRC’s next Chief Commissioner. The position has been held by Acting Chief Commissioner Rakeb Messele since July 2024. Nominations opened on December 5, 2024, and will remain active for 15 days.

Civil society representatives have criticized the short timeframe, arguing that it limits public participation and deliberation.

Speaking anonymously to The Reportera representative from a civil society organization called for an extension of the nomination period.

“Fifteen days is insufficient for such an important process. More time would allow the public to engage meaningfully and propose well-qualified candidates,” he noted.

In an exclusive interview, Acting Commissioner Rakeb underscored the importance of continuity and institutional memory in building strong democratic institutions. She advocated for the appointment of individuals with deep knowledge of the EHRC’s operations and a proven commitment to human rights.

“Replacing experienced leaders with individuals lacking institutional familiarity can disrupt progress,” Rakeb asserted. “As someone deeply invested in human rights advocacy, it would be an honor to continue serving as Chief Commissioner. I hope the selection process considers the importance of institutional stability and continuity.

Rakeb, a vocal proponent of gender equity and institutional resilience, also highlighted the value of women’s leadership in human rights.

“I firmly believe that appointing a leader with the requisite experience and vision will significantly impact the EHRC’s ability to protect and promote human rights,” she added.