Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) declared that attempts to dismantle or subjugate Ethiopia by force are bound to fail, speaking in an address to leaders of various political parties regarding the 2018 Ethiopian Calendar (E.C.) political discussions. Emphasizing national resilience, the Prime Minister outlined key national priorities spanning unity, economic growth, democratic elections, and the national dialogue.
Reflecting on historical challenges, Prime Minister Abiy noted that various actors have tried to divide the nation over the past century. "Any force that claims it will diminish or carve up Ethiopia will crumble itself, while Ethiopia remains steadfast; the country has moved beyond such mindsets," he stated, reassuring citizens that no entity can force the nation into submission.
Addressing the criticism that often accompanies national progress, the prime minister acknowledged that opposition is natural during periods of growth. Encouraging public servants and citizens to stay focused on national objectives, he urged, "They will hurl insults, but you must keep working."
Turning to democratic milestones, Prime Minister Abiy highlighted the outcome of Ethiopia's 7th general election, describing it as an inclusive process. Out of more than 54 million registered voters (54,057,861), voter turnout reached 96.2 percent. The ruling Prosperity Party secured a parliamentary majority with 438 seats, while competing political parties won 40 seats, and independent candidates took 8 seats.
On the economic front, the Prime Minister reaffirmed the government's commitment to flagship initiatives, including urban corridor development, achieving full self-sufficiency in wheat production, and completing the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD).
Stressing the importance of peaceful political engagement, Prime Minister Abiy explicitly rejected armed struggle as a viable route to power. "Attempts to seize power through banditry and Kalashnikovs will no longer work; even if they fight for 100 years, they cannot win by force," he emphasized. Pointing to successful peaceful reintegration programs in the Benishangul-Gumuz and Afar regions, he called on armed groups to choose a peaceful path while criticizing the double standard of claiming to seek cooperation while covertly supporting armed militants behind the scenes.
Highlighting recent historic achievements, the Prime Minister pointed to the Ethiopian National Dialogue, which brought together over 4,000 delegates from across the nation. Emphasizing the value of public participation and open discourse, he remarked: "Even if only a few of the proposed ideas are accepted, it is a great victory."
Concluding his address, Prime Minister Abiy called on opposition parties to build their organizational strength and prepare for future electoral contests. Promising a smooth democratic transition should the opposition succeed, he declared: "If you win a majority of the seats, we will peacefully hand over power; the events of '97 will not be repeated in Ethiopia." He urged all political actors to cultivate a democratic culture capable of peacefully accepting both victory and defeat.
