Local Government as a means for Ensuring Self-Rule in Gambella Peoples National Region State: the Case of Itang Special Woreda

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2018-06

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Addis Ababa University

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In the Ethiopian federal system, local governments have been established, among others, for the accommodation of diversity and administrative purpose. This study explores the value of establishing local government to accommodate intra-state minority in Gambella regional state. The region has established nationality zones and special woreda to accommodate the “indigenous” ethnic communities. Specially, Itang special woreda is the interesting case study area for three reasons: (i) It is established for both regional majority Anyuaa and Nuer ethnic groups and for the regional minority of Opo ethnic community; (ii) It has been a cause for ethnic conflict in the region. (iii) The residents of the special woreda have representatives in both Anyuaa and Nuer nationality zones over and above in the special woreda. Accordingly, the study assesses the significance of establishing Itang as special woreda to accommodate intra-local minority. The study has used primary sources obtained from the key informants of the study area. On the other hand, to address the objectives and to answer the questions of the study secondary sources were used. As the findings show it is difficult to conclude Itang was established based on adequate legal framework and agreement of the three “indigenous” ethnic groups. As a result the special woreda is challenged to; accommodate intra-local diversity, manage ethnic-based conflict, improve the access of public-service, and minimize political tension between the Anyuaa and Nuer ethnic groups.

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