26 December 2024

Center for the Advancement of Rights and Democracy (CARD) is a board-led, for not profit organization registered in Ethiopia under the revised Civil Societies Proclamation 1113/2019 with registry number 4307, and operating since 24 July 2019. 

On 17 December 2024, we were informed by the Authority of Civil Society Organizations Authority (ACSO) that our organization, the Center for Advancement of Rights and Democracy (CARD), has once again been suspended. It is to be recalled that CARD had made considerable efforts to have the first ban lifted, engaging in discussions with the ACSO. These efforts culminated in a letter dated 11 December 2024, notifying us that the ban had been lifted. At that time, we welcomed this decision and issued a statement reaffirming our commitment to resolving any outstanding issues through constructive dialogue.

Within just three working days of the initial lifting, we received another letter from the Authority citing our failure “to learn from the past mistakes and do course correction” and “comply with the Authority's regulations” as reasons for the re-suspension. This second suspension has come unexpectedly, even before we could resume our activities or address the initial issues as needed and according to the relevant laws and regulations. The lack of time and opportunity to resolve these problems and establish a mutual understanding with the Authority has significantly impacted our organization. We are deeply concerned that our organization is being subjected to repeated undue pressures despite operating in full compliance with the constitution, Civil Society Organization Proclamation, and all relevant laws and regulations.

In response to this reimposed suspension, CARD has formally requested a written explanation from ACSO and is prepared to appeal the decision to the Authority's Governance Board, in accordance with the law. We remain committed to pursuing all legal avenues to overturn the suspension and will keep the public informed of any developments.

Center for Advancement of Rights and Democracy (CARD)