President Taye Atske Selassie marked the 85th Patriots' Victory Day by declaring that Ethiopia celebrates a legacy of victory rather than independence because the nation has never known the yoke of colonial rule. Speaking on the profound significance of the milestone, the President noted that the victory over fascist Italy was achieved through the immense sacrifice of ancestors who endured poisonous gas while receiving virtually no international support.

The president framed this triumph as definitive proof to the world that fascism could be dismantled, establishing a legacy of pride not only for Ethiopians but for all Black people globally. President Taye emphasized that true heroism involves placing the nation’s interests above individual gain, asserting that those driven by an unbridled lust for power will never succeed in bringing the country to its knees.

Echoing this sentiment at a ceremony held at the newly renovated Arat Kilo Plaza, Mayor Adanech Abebie called on the current generation to honor this history by forging a new era of patriotism. While historical patriotism was defined by defending the land from foreign invaders, Mayor Adanch argued that the modern struggle must focus on liberating the country from poverty, backwardness, and dependency. She noted that just as past heroes defeated both external invaders and internal traitors, today's citizens must unite to overcome modern "bandas" who attempt to derail national progress and peace. 

Accompanied by high-ranking military and association leaders, the Mayor concluded that the ultimate tribute to the ancestors' sacrifice is a vigilant and hardworking population dedicated to ensuring Ethiopia's enduring sovereignty.