By : Lloyd Mahachi
In a significant development, Ethiopia’s parliament has approved the appointment of Taye Atsike Selassie as the country’s new president, replacing Sahle-Work Zewde, the nation’s first female head of state. This change comes amidst reported tensions between Sahle-Work and Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, who initially backed her appointment in 2018.

Sahle-Work Zewde, 74, had served as president since 2018, with her appointment being hailed as a breakthrough for gender equality in Ethiopian politics. However, her tenure was marked by criticism for not speaking out enough against gender-based violence during the two-year civil war in Tigray. Sources close to her revealed that she had been unhappy for some time and was awaiting the end of her term, due later this month.

Taye Atsike Selassie, 68, an experienced diplomat with stints at the UN and in Egypt, is considered close to Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. His appointment has sparked interest, given the largely ceremonial nature of the presidential role in Ethiopia, where political power lies with the prime minister. Taye was sworn in before MPs on Monday.

Sahle-Work Zewde’s departure means Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan is now Africa’s only female head of state. The development also raises questions about the implications for gender equality in Ethiopian politics.

The replacement comes amidst ongoing conflicts in Oromia and Amhara regions, with federal forces battling local militias, resulting in hundreds of deaths and allegations of crimes against humanity. Sahle-Work had expressed concerns about these conflicts, but her ability to influence change was limited by the ceremonial nature of her role.

Taye Atsike Selassie’s presidency is expected to maintain continuity with Abiy Ahmed’s administration. As an experienced diplomat, he may bring a unique perspective to the role, but the focus remains on the prime minister’s leadership.

Ethiopia’s parliament has appointed Taye Atsike Selassie as the new president, replacing Sahle-Work Zewde, amidst reported tensions with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. The development marks a significant shift in Ethiopian politics and raises questions about gender equality and the ongoing conflicts in the country.

Editor : Josephine Mahachi