Ethiopia's Justice Minister Highlights Importance of Pan African Lawyers Union

Addis Ababa October 17/2024 (ENA) The Minister of Justice, Gedion Timothewos, highlighted the significant benefit of exchanging experience and consulting on legal and related issues through the Pan African Lawyers Union (PALU). 

He made the remark this during the 14th Pan African Lawyers Union (PALU) Assembly, which is being held from October 16 to 19, 2024, at the African Union Conference Center in Addis Ababa.

Leaders of bar associations from various African countries, international legal organizations, representatives from the African Union and the United Nations, among others, are participating in the Conference.  

 

 In his opening speech, Dr. Gedion stressed the importance of this gathering, stating that the Pan African Lawyers Union's collaboration and exchange of ideas have tremendous advantages.

He mentioned that it is essential to provide professional support and share experiences with member states, the African Union, and other regional institutions.

He also pointed out that the ongoing meeting in Addis Ababa serves as an excellent platform for legal professionals to engage and exchange insights.

 

The President of the PANU, Kari Abdoul bagui underscored the role that legal professionals play in good governance and development efforts across Africa. 

Under the theme “Africa as a Global Powerhouse: Empowering Minds, Enlightening Paths,” the four-day conference aimed at amplifying the voices of African lawyers on critical legal matters. 

Its objectives include promoting and protecting fundamental human rights, safeguarding the independence of judges and the legal profession, and advocating for good governance and democracy across the continent.

The agenda will cover a range of topics, including the independence of the legal profession, cross-border commercial disputes, the sovereign debt crisis, and other pressing issues affecting legal practice in Africa.

The conference is expected to produce important resolutions and set future directions for the continent.

The Pan African Lawyers Union , established over 22 years ago, represents bar associations from 54 African countries, eight regional institutions, and over 1,100 members.