In a move aimed at solidifying stability amidst evolving geopolitical dynamics, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has declared the maintenance of peace as the primary mission of Ethiopia's security institutions. Discussions with security leaders concluded today, focusing on enhancing their capacity to protect national interests and ensure public safety.
According to a statement released Wednesday by the Prime Minister's Office, Abiy Ahmed stressed the vital role of security forces in creating an environment conducive to prosperity and achieving national goals. "Peace and security are not only an enabling condition for Ethiopia’s prosperity, but also the main goal," the Prime Minister stated, emphasising the need to prevent and control crimes that disrupt societal harmony.
The Prime Minister noted that activities carried out by the people based on their culture and values, the role of security institutions is irreplaceable. "It was widely discussed during the discussion that the peace of the people should be maintained by preventing and controlling crimes such as drug trafficking, urban and rural robbery, smuggling, corruption, illegal trafficking of people and money, and other crimes".
Discussions emphasised the crucial need to control disturbances to the free movement of people and goods. “Therefore, we must control the robberies, blockades, and obstacles in various places systematically," the Prime Minister stated, highlighting the importance of cooperation between security forces and local communities to prevent disruptions and bring perpetrators to justice.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister underscored the importance of protecting essential infrastructure, mining sites, industries, residential areas, and public utilities, ensuring their smooth operation. He emphasised the growing desire and capacity of the people to safeguard peace, noting their collaboration with security forces through cultural and spiritual values, leading armed groups towards peaceful resolutions. They are cooperating with security forces to maintain local peace and providing information and logistical support to security operations, the Prime Minister relayed.
He said this public capacity should be further strengthened with training for sustainable peace.
The discussion also addressed the rising threat of terrorist activities conducted through social media aimed at undermining Ethiopia's progress.
Prime Minister Abiy directed security agencies to intensify monitoring and control efforts using cyber technology. "Instructions were given to the security agencies to work hard to carry out technological prevention and control activities, and on the other hand, to bring the perpetrators of terrorism to justice," he reportedly said, signalling a dual approach of technological prevention and legal prosecution.
The Prime Minister, furthering the matter, affirmed that the regular readiness of security institutions has reached a level that can protect Ethiopia's national interests. "It has been confirmed that Ethiopia is building security institutions that are modern and built on constitutional values," he asserted.
The PM also declared that this construction should be a regular activity to build security institutions, that are ready for any situation, anytime, anywhere.
The Premier Abiy concluded by asserting that Ethiopia's security institutions are well-positioned to protect the country's sovereignty, independence, borders, peace, and security amidst the evolving geopolitical landscape.
He insisted on maintaining a heightened state of readiness to quell internal and external threats and preserve peace.
