Restorative Justice among the Macha Oromoo of Noolee Kaabbaa: The case of Dilaa Koobii Warqee

Abstract

This article focuses on a Dilaa Kobii Warqee Qaalluu that is situated in Wollega, particularly in Noolee Kaabbaa. Despite the fact that this Qaalluu center is active, it remains marginal in Oromoo literature. Thus, this article aims at discussing how the Dilaa Koobii Warqee Qalluu addresses thecase of homicide through gumaa (blood price payment). To achieve this objective, we collected data from primary sources through key informant interviews, focus group discussions, and observations. Interviews and FGDs with purposively selected informants were conducted. In addition, various indigenous dispute resolution procedures that were addressed by the Qaalluu Dilaa Koobii Warqee were observed. The findings of this article indicate that the Dilaa Koobii Warqee of Noolee Kaabbaa is one of the indigenous justice systems for addressing disputes and promoting relative peace, security, and social order among the Oromoo of this area. This institution deals with disputes involving corporate responsibilities for offenses such as homicide. In homicide, both the clan of the killer and the clan of the victim take responsibility for resolving the dispute. This indigenous institution primarily targets restoring the ruptured relations between the parties in dispute to maintain social order and peace rather than punishing the offender and compensating the victim.