Seerota Gadaan Dubartiif Tume Qajeeltoowwan Seerota Gadaa Oromoo Maccaa Xiinxaluu

Abstract

This article investigates and analyzes Maccaa Gadaa laws made to defend women from violence and maintain their rights. It uses both primary and secondary data sources. The primary data were collected through observations, interviews, and focus group discussions. Secondary data were collected from published and unpublished sources. Both were described and analysed qualitatively. The findings show that egalitarian and inclusive laws are declared on Gadaa assembly. The mass assemble, forward issues, suggest ways, oppose, alter or amend what is believed incongruent, support what is believed appropriate to the natural laws. Then a delegated member declares the consented on laws to be applied as laws of humans, animals, plants, and the whole natural environment. Within these, specific laws are declared and amended to defend and maintain the places of women or girls. These laws pass from generation to generation orally. Hayyuu seeraa are lawyers or legal experts possessing knowledge of laws and ways of applying them on specific cases. Laws also safeguard institutions of women and girls enabling all to participate on the occassions of addooyyee and ateete. Such laws are especially strict in protecting pregnant and breast-feeding women. In conclusion, the results illustrate being from the grassroots, the laws of Gadaa system are fair, objective, egalitarian, considerate, and well balanced to create equitable society. Gada laws are potential resources for present-day legislative processes.