Indigenous Conflict Resolution Mechanisms And Rehabilitation Strategies Among The Arsi Oromo

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine the role of Arsi people in resolving conflict among the Arsi Oromo. To conduct this study qualitative research method and ethnographic design approach were used. The major objectives of the study were to find out the specific indigenous mechanism of conflict resolution , examine the experience of Arsi Oromo in conflict resolution, and identify the nature of psychosocial life of the victims and the person that caused the conflict before and after the conflict. Much of the data that were used in this paper as source of dependable information were gathered from 26 person ,7 males,2 female from member of communities , 12 Arsi elders ,2 Gada leaders ,and 3 police officials. All were purposely selected and interviewed. The sources were consulted through intensive interviews, focus group discussion, and observation. One focus group discussion was conducted in Gode kebele. All generated data were assembled, inspected; thematically categorized and analyzed. The data analyzed in this study clearly reveals that conflict in the society of Arsi Oromo rise on multitude of ground. Since the source of conflict can be traced to a number of causes the major ones are attributed to economic factors, such as constraints of farm land. Arsi people are responsible to resolve conflicts since they are resolving conflict through demanding and effective mechanism practices. It seems,(in many aspect) processing conflict through traditional approaches have advantages over modern bureaucratic court system. Though, the activities of Arsi people are contributing much in conflict resolution, it is not well studied and they are not empowered to function as expected. Currently, the role of Arsi as replacing by the modern culture and the role of Arsi people in conflict resolution is already ignored. However, conflict resolution mechanism without considering the traditional way, may not be as effective as it is used to see. Therefore, it seems important if the modern legal system take the tradition system into account and work with traditional system.