Public Lecture on Truth, Justice, and Reconciliation Held at Adihaki Campus-MU
The College of Law and Governance-MU held a significant public lecture today at Adihaki Campus, focusing on the theme "Truth, Justice, and Reconciliation." The event brought together esteemed scholars and practitioners to discuss the complexities of these concepts, especially in the context of societies emerging from conflict.

Dr. Eyasu Yazew, Vice President for Research and Community Service, delivered the opening speech, emphasizing the critical nature of the discussion. He stated, "This discussion is more than abstract concepts; it is also an engagement with ideas that will have profound implications for societies emerging from war. The pursuit of truth is often the first step toward healing, especially in post-war societies where untold stories and silenced voices must be brought to light. Truth commissions, such as South Africa's Truth and Reconciliation Commission, exemplify how revealing facts can contribute to societal healing and reconciliation. Yet, truth alone is not sufficient; it must be followed by justice and accountability."
The lecture featured Professor Janet Cherry, a renowned human rights activist from Nelson Mandela University in South Africa, who shared valuable lessons from South Africa's experiences with truth, justice, and reconciliation. Her insights emphasized the challenges and successes of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) in fostering a collective memory and promoting national healing in South Africa.
Dr. Tsegay Birhane, President of the Tigray Supreme Court, presented on the profound importance of instrumenting transitional justice in Ethiopia, particularly in the context of the Tigray conflict. He remarked, "I use the title to refer to the use of transitional justice mechanisms and processes for purposes other than their intended goals of addressing past human rights violations, achieving peace, and fostering reconciliation."
In addition, Dr. Muez Gidey, a researcher at the Tigray Institute of Policy Studies, discussed the South African TRC and its implications for envisioning truth and reconciliation in light of the Tigray genocide.
The discussion was moderated by Professor Lorette Mitku Haile, the founder and former head of Mekelle University, who facilitated an engaging dialogue among the speakers and the audience.
This public lecture serves as a crucial platform for examining the roles of truth, justice, and reconciliation in post-conflict societies, particularly in the Ethiopian context, highlighting the ongoing challenges and the importance of collective efforts toward healing and accountability.