Addressing the nation, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has identified two fundamental challenges that continue to shape Ethiopia's political culture, hindering its advancement towards a more stable and unified future. The Prime Minister pointed to a deeply ingrained "culture of destruction" and the enduring legacy of socialist ideology as key impediments.
According to Prime Minister Abiy, Ethiopian political culture has historically been characterized by a "culture of destruction," where successive governments have often sought to dismantle the structures and initiatives established by their predecessors, rather than building upon them. He emphasized that this pattern has been a recurring theme throughout the nation's political history.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the lasting impact of socialist ideology, which he stated introduced a rigid and divisive mentality, categorizing political actors as either "enemies" or "allies." This framework, according to PM Abiy, has significantly limited the potential for peaceful negotiations and has fueled a persistent desire among certain groups to seize power through force, rather than through democratic processes.
Prime Minister Abiy further noted that these historical challenges continue to manifest in contemporary Ethiopian politics. He pointed to the ongoing issue of certain groups attempting to violently overthrow the elected government, often while claiming to represent the interests of the people. The Prime Minister underscored the irony of such actions, stating that these very groups inflict suffering upon the citizens they claim to defend.
Prime Minister Abiy's analysis serves as a critical reflection on the underlying issues affecting Ethiopia's political landscape, suggesting a need for a shift in mindset to foster a more constructive and peaceful political environment.