An Examination into the Legality of Parole Granted to Dergue Officials: A Justifiable Decision or A Mockery of Justice?

Abstract

Parole is an early release of a prisoner after serving a portion of the sentence. It
can be granted if certain predetermined conditions are met. After political
reform of 2018, it has been a usual trend to parole inmates. This has been the
subject of public discourse and debate. Some questioned the legality of the
move and its adverse effects on law enforcement, and symbolic effects that
unrestrained parole produces. This short article briefly explores the conditions
for parole under international and Ethiopian law; analyzes the legality of
granting parole for convicts of serious crimes like genocide under Ethiopian
law and examines the legality of parole granted to the former Dergue officials
in light of the conditions set by law. In doing so, this work briefly examines the
nature, legal conditionalities of granting parole, and rationale by applying
doctrinal research methodology.