1. All sovereign power resides in the Nations, Nationalities and
Peoples of Ethiopia.
2. This Constitution is an expression of their sovereignty.
3. Their sovereignty shall be expressed through their representatives
elected in accordance with this Constitution and through their direct democratic
participation
Article 9
Supremacy of the Constitution
1. The Constitution is the supreme law of the land. Any law, customary
practice or a decision of an organ of state or a public official which
contravenes this Constitution shall be of no effect.
2. All citizens, organs of state, political organizations, other associations
as well as their officials have the duty to ensure observance of the Constitution
and to obey it.
3. It is prohibited to assume state power in any manner other than
that provided under the Constitution.
4. All international agreements ratified by Ethiopia are an integral
part of the law of the land.
Article 10
Human and Democratic Rights
1. Human rights and freedoms, emanating from the nature of mankind, are
inviolable and inalienable.
2. Human and democratic rights of citizens and peoples shall be respected.
Article 11
Separation of State and Religion
1. State and religion are separate.
2. There shall be no state religion.
3. The state shall not interfere in religious matters and religion
shall not interfere in state affairs.
Article 12
Conduct and Accountability of Government
1. The conduct of affairs of government shall be transparent.
2. Any public official or an elected representative is accountable
for any failure in official duties.
3. In case of loss of confidence, the people may recall an elected
representative. The particulars of recall shall be determined by law.
