Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD), speaking at the 30th regular session of the House of Peoples' Representatives, expressed his gratitude to members of the Prosperity Party and other political factions for their five years of service. Addressing the lawmakers, he specifically called on outgoing members of parliament to continue serving the nation in other governmental capacities. Using the remarks of outgoing MP Desalegn Chane as an example, the Prime Minister emphasized that their departure from the legislature should not mark the end of their public service. He stressed that Ethiopia is a shared country and urged politicians from all sides to collaborate across various sectors outside of the parliament to ensure national development and prosperity.
Reflecting on the 7th general election, PM Abiy described the process as a historic event that demonstrated the Ethiopian public's deep, accumulated heritage of nation-building. He noted that this election cycle was unique because the electoral process itself, rather than the competing political forces, became the primary target for destruction and severe sabotage. Despite widespread negative narratives predicting that the election would fail, the prime minister stated that citizens stood in unity, practically defeating extremism and firmly rejecting destructive motives. He remarked that the election provided profound lessons for any political entity willing to learn.
He highlighted the unprecedented public turnout as a defining characteristic of the election, observing that citizens queued from early morning until midnight to cast their ballots. The Prime Minister underscored the profound dedication of various segments of society, noting that the elderly voted to secure the continuity of their children's country, while the sick, mourners, and mothers carrying infants also actively exercised their rights. He specifically pointed out the resilience of citizens who went to polling stations without wavering, even while active gunfire could be heard in their vicinity.
Prime Minister Abiy also assured the parliament that the government views the public's decision as a heavy responsibility and a great trust. He firmly stated that his administration will not take the massive voice of the people lightly or look at it with indifference. Instead, he promised that the government will accord the public's mandate the highest respect and value, committing to work with the utmost determination and diligence to honor the historic contribution of the Ethiopian people.
