Law is a system that rules and guides our daily activity. It is the very basic way that directs a community to live a peaceful and organized life. These are few of the reasons why individuals should know and value the importance of law. Today, Q&A presents Aman Hibtzghi, one of the many young lawyers in Eritrea. Aman is one of the few outstanding students who were honored with a ZAGRE Award, a medal given to students who score highest marks in the matriculations exam. He graduated in 2016 from the College of Arts and Social Science with a B.A degree in Law. Aman continued to explore the field more as he was assigned to work at the persecutor’s office for over a year in Tokombia, Gash-Barka region. He currently works as a member of a research team on criminal investigation at the National Prosecutor’s Office.
- Would you please share your childhood with our readers?
I come from a family that truly understands and values education. I used to be hyper when I was a kid, which I think some still does exist. Both of my parents are Business management graduates which is why they both have supported and encourage me to get where I am today.
- What subjects were you most interested in?
I was into history mostly at first. However, I became more concerned about economics later on. I can’t specifically tell why I was more in to the subjects, however it could be because history deals with the incredible stories the planet has experienced and about the ever changing development that economics brings. That is why even after I graduated, I still had the interest to join the economics department.
- You were one of the youngest students in High School, was it challenging for you at times?
Yes, I think I was the youngest. I was excelling at all the subjects except math. However, I studied hard for my matriculation exam, and I got a satisfying result. Generally speaking my matriculation score was adequate considering my weakness on math.
- Why did you choose Law school?
I was going for Economics at first. But that was before the law school was opened and I changed my mind. I was also more interested after I asked about the field.
Law is a very basic thing for societies to live in peace. It is difficult for people to know their rights and duties if there is no law to guide them. Law restricts an individual’s way of living in relation to the societies of culture. Law should exist before anything else, if not, it is impossible for society to be directed in the right way.
- How was Law school for you?
It is a very interesting field and always has momentum. The challenges motivate you for a much in-depth study, which lead to upgrading your skills even more. It was an interesting journey for me. I learned and search more books to develop certain expertise. Most of all, bringing justice to the ones who deserve it is just priceless.
The study included four years of domestic and international law in addition to courses on economics and phycology.
- What does the international law embrace?
It deals with the international accords and relations and how it is managed. Also it holds the laws of the sea, business and distributions of natural resources such as rivers and etc.
- What about domestic law?
The domestic and international laws have similarities. Yet, the international law is more concerned in the international relations of various states, human rights, and weapon control while the domestic law is concerned in the local affairs.
- The role of a prosecutor?
A prosecutor represents the people and government. The prosecutor brings anyone who violates the law to justice. Also, it is a persecutor’s job to do criminal investigations.
- You are 25 years of age, how do you manage your career considering your age?
I know it can be challenging sometimes. People aren’t really satisfied when a young person is holding their cases. But that is wrong. I think young people have the abilities to explore their career, to research and be great at what they do. It is important to have the work experience at a young age and a lot can be benefited from that. By the way, I want to remind people that age doesn’t matter, it is the experience and skills that counts the most.
- Where are the places you have worked as a prosecutor?
Soon after I graduated I worked as an arbiter assistant at the Central region Court almost for three months. After gaining the three month experience I was assigned to go work in Tkombia, Gash-Barka region, as a prosecutor. I am currently working as a researcher at the National Prosecutor’s Office.
- The knowledge our society has in Law?
I think it is well. Our society knows and values the rule of law. That is the most important thing to sustain and attain justice.
- Do you have any other hobbies?
Yes. I love to read. I have also come up in partnership with my friend, with a movie series which we weren’t able to release yet due to financial problems. Also, I am a sportsperson. I love soccer.
- How do you think Law school has influenced your life?
Honestly speaking, it has influenced me greatly. I see everything through law. I started to consider my answers in every conversation. I am not the same person as I was before I joined law school. I see it positively, it has helped me see and analyze things carefully.
- You are also doing your masters.
Yes, I am doing my masters on philosophy.
- Before we conclude our interview?
I would like to thank everyone who has been there for me to get to where I am today. My success is the outcome of everyone who has supported me through my academic years, so I would like thank my family, friends and everyone who has looked after me.