Ayana Simachew

Intergovernmental Relations in Ethiopian Federalism: the Role of Ministry of Federal Affairs in Facilitating Intergovernmental Relations Ayana Simachew

Art 50(2) of the Ethiopian constitution hints a dual form of federalism i.e both the federal and state governments execute their own policies and laws using their own machineries. Except this provision, intergovernmental relations are the least regulated area under the constitution. In Ethiopian federalism, federal law enforcement agents have not yet been established throughout the country except for exclusive federal matters. Hence, there is no a well organized institution to work as good intergovernmental relations to coordinate shared (framework) policy programs. The Ministry of Federal Affairs (MOFA) has been formally established to facilitate the relations of governments. Due to many problems, however, this institution has not effectively discharged its huge tasks as it is given in the proclamation No. 417/2005. Today to execute federal laws and policies in the states using such mechanism seem to be easy as the ruling party (EPRDF) controls both governments. The question is, could the party channel be taken as good forum of intergovernmental relations in Ethiopia long in the future.