Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has issued a message on the occasion of Ethiopia's 84th Patriots' Day, also known as Arbegnoch Qen, paying tribute to the sacrifices of past generations while calling for a new form of patriotism focused on national prosperity.
In his message, the prime minister extended his best wishes for the 84th Patriots' (Victory) Day, acknowledging the immense price paid by forefathers and mothers who "secured freedom with their blood and handed down the country to us." He stated that their sacrifice allows Ethiopians to "stand tall and walk freely in public squares today," a legacy the nation is proud of.
However, the prime minister added that despite the hard-won liberation, Ethiopia's freedom remains incomplete, primarily "due to our poverty and backwardness."
To achieve complete freedom, Prime Minister Abiy stressed that "Ethiopia today needs second-era patriots." He defined these individuals as those who will strive to bring about "holistic prosperity," thereby completing the nation's freedom. This new generation of patriots, he explained, will engage in a "peaceful struggle" against poverty and backwardness across political, economic, social, and diplomatic sectors.
Prime Minister Abiy outlined the tools and spirit required for this contemporary form of patriotism. He stated that the "armament of this era's patriotism is knowledge, skill, and discipline," while its spirit is fueled by "love of country, determination, and integrity." The ultimate objective, he affirmed, is "the prosperity of Ethiopia."
The Prime Minister emphasized the continued necessity of both the traditional defenders of freedom and the new-era patriots of development to make Ethiopia great. He expressed his strong hope that this specific day of commemoration for the first era of patriotism will also serve as a crucial "foundation for the second era of patriotism."
He concluded his message by wishing everyone a happy holiday and offering a blessing, stating, "May Ethiopia, through the efforts of its children, live forever, respected and honored! May the Creator bless Ethiopia and its peoples!"