The Ethiopian House of Peoples’ Representatives (HoPR), the lower chamber of parliament Thursday approved a new Property Restitution Law, designed to shut legal loopholes in the recovery of government and public assets.
The approval came after the parliament had reviewed the draft law and considered the report and recommendations presented to it by the Standing Committee on Legal and Justice Affairs and following thorough deliberations, the bill was passed with an overwhelming majority.
The newly approved law establishes mechanisms for returning unlawfully acquired property, ensuring accountability, and closing legal gaps that have previously hindered restitution efforts.
According to the Standing Committee’s Secretary, Ezegnet Mengistu, the committee presented a report detailing modifications and additional provisions incorporated into 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 finalising the bill.
The Property Restitution Law is designed to eliminate legal gaps in reclaiming misappropriated government and public assets, hold accountable those who unlawfully benefit from stolen assets, and support national development by ensuring that public wealth is protected and utilised appropriately.
The law is intended to reinforce anti-corruption efforts, enabling the recovery of illegally obtained national assets and preventing financial crimes.
MG/as/APA