Fundamental Principles

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POLITICS

GOVERNMENT

CONSTITUTION

PREAMBLE

CHAPTER 1

CHAPTER 2

CHAPTER 3

CHAPTER 4

CHAPTER 5

CHAPTER 6

CHAPTER 7

CHAPTER 8

CHAPTER 9

CHAPTER 10

CHAPTER 11

Article 8

Sovereignty of the People

All sovereign power resides in the nations, nationalities, and peoples of Ethiopia. This Constitution is an expression of their sovereignty. They exercise, in accordance with this Constitution, their sovereignty through their elected representatives and through direct democratic participation.

Article 9

Supremacy of the Constitution

The Constitution is the supreme law of the land. Any law, customary practice, an act of an agency of government or official that contravenes the Constitution is invalid. All citizens, governmental bodies, political parties and other associations and their officials are bound by this Constitution. They also have the duty to ensure its observance.

No one can assume or exercise the powers of government except in accordance with the provisions of this Constitution.

All international agreements ratified by Ethiopia are an integral part of the laws of the country.

Article 10

Human and Democratic Rights

Human rights and freedoms are inviolable and inalienable. They are inherent in the dignity of human beings. Human and democratic rights of Ethiopian citizens shall be respected.

Article 11

Separation of State and Religion

State and religion are separate. There shall be no state religion. Government shall not interfere in the conduct or practice of any religion. Religion shall not interfere in the affairs of government.

Article 12

Conduct and Accountability of Government

The conduct of the affairs of government shall be public and transparent. Any public official or an elected representative is accountable for any dereliction of the duties of office. An elected representative may be recalled if the electorate looses confidence in him. The procedure of recall shall be determined by law.