Part 3: The Path Forward: Uniting Ethiopia for the Future
Ethiopia has set in motion the National Dialogue Commission, tasked with reviewing and potentially amending specific constitutional provisions, such as Article 39, in a bid to promote unity and address longstanding concerns. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed recently made a significant announcement, highlighting the upcoming National Dialogue as a pivotal milestone in joint efforts to foster understanding and address contentious issues.
During the auspicious occasion of Meskel last month, he emphasized that the celebration of Demera signifies the Ethiopian people coming together to elevate the nation to new heights through ethnic unity.
Demera is a significant tradition that entails the illumination of a grand bonfire, where people from various ethnic backgrounds gather to ignite a magnificent blaze using bundles of branches, sticks, and torches on the eve of the Meskel festival. Abiy underscored that Demera serves as a symbol of collective unity in the pursuit of the nation’s loftiest aspirations.
He drew parallels between the various sticks, branches, and torches used to construct the Demera and the diverse cultures, faiths, resources, value systems, distinctive perspectives, and rich histories that make up the tapestry of Ethiopia. The Prime Minister emphasized that unity does not necessitate uniformity of viewpoints, identities, or languages. Much like the construction of the Demera, the amalgamation of these valuable assets fortifies not only local communities but the entire nation, reinforcing the collective strength of Ethiopia.
The central pole that unites and supports the diverse branches and torches of the Demera symbolises the federal system through which Ethiopians establish a single economic and political community. According to him, this reflects the nation’s multi-ethnic unity and the distinct Ethiopian identity. By embracing this diversity, Ethiopians can collectively construct a prosperous and resilient nation that belongs to all. Abiy reaffirmed the importance of ethnic unity as a driving force behind a stronger, more united Ethiopia.
Abiy’s leadership signifies a substantial effort to address the challenges posed by Ethiopia’s ethnic federalism system and to unite a fragmented nation. While he has demonstrated a vision for unity, he faces formidable obstacles, and his journey reflects the complexities of navigating a country marked by ethnic divisions. By drawing lessons from both historical divisions like the Zemene Mesafint and contemporary challenges, Ethiopia may yet find a path to greater unity and stability, embracing its diversity while overcoming the divides of the past and present.
The PM’s vision and the symbolism of the Demera stand as beacons of hope for a more unified Ethiopia, where diversity is celebrated, unity is strengthened, and the media serves as a unifying force.
The Shared Responsibility for Unity
A united, strong, and stable Ethiopia requires a collective effort from all ethnic groups, government levels, and media professionals working together to build a brighter future.
1. Ethnic Groups:
- Cultural Preservation: Ethnic groups play a pivotal role in preserving and celebrating their unique cultural heritage, fostering a sense of pride and identity.
- Promotion of Inclusivity: Encouraging inclusivity and respect for all ethnic and religious groups can help build social cohesion.
- Conflict Resolution: Ethnic communities can contribute to peace and stability by actively participating in conflict resolution and mediation efforts at the local level.
2. Government at All Levels:
- De-Ethnicizing Politics: Shifting political discourse away from ethnicity-based politics and toward issue-based politics can help alleviate tensions and divisions.
- Equal Representation: Ensuring fair representation of all ethnic groups in government institutions and public services is vital for promoting unity.
- Economic Equity: Implementing policies that address economic disparities among regions and ethnic groups can promote social and economic stability.
- Investing in Education: Prioritizing education at all levels and promoting a national curriculum that emphasizes Ethiopia’s shared history and values can foster a sense of unity among the youth.
3. Social Media Activists and the Media:
- The Responsibility of Media: Social media and traditional media play a pivotal role in shaping public opinion. They must exercise responsible journalism by disseminating accurate and unbiased information to bridge divides rather than intensify them.
- Promoting Constructive Dialogue: Social media activists should encourage constructive dialogue and understanding among diverse groups, emphasizing the commonalities that unite Ethiopians.
- Combating Disinformation: Activists, social media influencers, and the media must also be vigilant against the spread of disinformation and hate speech, which can exacerbate divisions.
The Diaspora Community
Ethiopia’s diaspora community plays a dual and significant role in the country’s political landscape, contributing both positively and negatively to the nation’s development and stability.
However, the diaspora community’s involvement in Ethiopian politics is a double-edged sword. While some members of the diaspora contribute to positive change and progress, there are instances where their influence has been less constructive. Certain diaspora communities have been known to provide financial backing to politicians who prioritise personal gain over the nation’s well-being, akin to the actions of Judas Iscariot in Biblical lore.
Moreover, the diaspora’s involvement in circulating information through social media platforms has raised significant concerns. While these platforms offer a valuable avenue for sharing insights and promoting discussions, certain diaspora activists have exploited them to propagate unverified and false information, sowing seeds of discord and confusion not only among the general public but also within the international community.
This propagation of misinformation poses a significant threat to the unity of Ethiopia’s ethnically fragmented society. It has the potential to exacerbate existing tensions and hinder efforts to bridge divides and build a more cohesive nation.
In order to harness the positive contributions of the diaspora community and mitigate the negative impacts, it is critical to encourage responsible and informed engagement. This involves promoting fact-based discussions, fostering unity, and prioritising the nation’s interests over personal or political agendas. The diaspora community, with its financial resources and knowledge, can be a powerful force for positive change in Ethiopia, but responsible engagement is key to realising this potential.
As we approach the conclusion of our commentary, there is a critical point that warrants emphasis. This pivotal aspect calls for our careful attention and underscores its significance in shaping the future of Ethiopia.
Abiy’s challenges are not just historical but two- or even three-fold in comparison to his imperial predecessors. His leadership has taken place in an era defined by the rapid advancement of technology and the ubiquitous presence of social media. In this digital age, where every individual can contribute to these platforms, the flow of information is relentless.
In this landscape, the role of the media has transformed into a formidable force, capable of shaping public opinion and influencing the international community’s perception. However, Abiy’s government, its public relations efforts, and the dissemination of fact-based information face significant hurdles. In the age of social media, where information travels at the speed of light, proactively conveying accurate, fact-based information has proven to be a challenging task.
In this complex environment, the government’s efforts to navigate the digital realm and effectively communicate its policies and actions must adapt to the ever-evolving dynamics of the information age. The responsibility extends beyond official channels to encompass social media influencers, activists, and all stakeholders dedicated to Ethiopia’s unity and stability.
Addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort to ensure that the truth is not overshadowed by misinformation and that the story of a united Ethiopia, celebrating its diversity and striving for collective prosperity, is effectively shared with the world. In the age of digital information, the ability to control the narrative, while respecting the principles of transparency and open dialogue, is crucial for shaping the nation’s future.
By embracing these principles and effectively utilizing the tools of the digital age, we believe that Abiy’s government can navigate these challenges and work towards a more unified, stable, and prosperous Ethiopia.
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Let’s come together in an effort to foster a stronger, more united Ethiopia.
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