The Bail Justice In Ethiopia: Challenges Of Its Administration

Currently, any constitution of a civilized state recognizes the right to bail. In Ethiopia, the right to bail is constitutionally recognized since 1931. However, in practice the laws enacted by the legislature unusually distinguishes offences punishable under the law as bailable and not bailable for the purpose of granting bail. Anyone accused of with any of the offences considered to be as not bailable by the legislature has no chance of release from custody until the final disposition of the case. This raises various issues including but not limited to whether it is possible to say the right to bail is fully recognized in Ethiopia, whether the legislature can limit the right to bail at will, whether such practice are inconsonant of some pillars recognized by the constitution like the presumption of innocence, due process of law, and the right to access to justice. Moreover, other practical challenges are raised relating to the promotion of rule of law, the independence of the judiciary, separation of power, which are also recognized under the constitution. This book is meant to address the above and more other concerns related to the bail justice administration of Ethiopia.