problem with the principle of democratic centralism is that it does not allow for compromises and consensus building outside of the framework of the ruling party. The party tends to demand strict party discipline even down to the level of the local community (neighbourhoods), thereby sometimes frustrating or negating the policy of decentralisation. Rigid adherence to democratic centralism in a multiparty democratic arrangement can yield top-down governance and intolerance. XIX. Thirdly, there is urgent need to strengthen cross-national and oversight institutions, like the National Election Board of Ethiopia, the Human Rights Commission, the Federal Ethics and Anti Corruption Commission, and the Ombudsman, among others, and to develop appropriate democratic values and political culture that will prevent re-hegemonisation by a national group or coalition of national and ethnic groups and enable Ethiopians to sustain a system of governance that finds “beauty in its unity and diversity in its beauty”—as stated in its creed. Freedom of expression as guaranteed under Article 29 of the Constitution should prevail. Reports of journalists, editors and publishers being harassed and prosecuted for alleged violations of press laws are still common. Government usually threatens to jam and close media centres for violation of press laws. There was reported surveillance of the press and journalists during the May elections in Ethiopia. Out of fear, the media centres go to the extent of distorting public statements from opposition politicians. XX. The CRM observes undercurrents of perceptions, especially among opposition groups that critical institutions and agencies such as FEACC and the NEBE are not independent. Although the CRM was given no proof or concrete evidence to support these perceptions, they are noted as potential flash points. More constructive engagement and a demonstrable show of political will from the political class is required to reach a consensus on how best to build capacity for these critical institutions of democratic consolidation and national unity. It is incumbent on the government to create a competitive and level playing field to assure Ethiopians of the ex ante indeterminacy of the electoral process and ensure the credibility and legitimacy of political succession, even after the 2010 general elections. E. Economic Governance and Management XXI. Since the overthrow of the Derg regime in May 1991, Ethiopia has witnessed a wide range of policy reforms in the economic sphere. The socialist command economy has given way to a market-oriented liberal economy. - 27 -