Question

Explain Ethiopia's transition to democracy with Management perspective

Answer 1

Ethiopia's transition to democracy has been explained:

• In January 2018, the ruling Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF) declared that it would pursue reforms in response to intensifying antigovernment protests that began in November 2015.
• In April, at the age of 42, Abiy Ahmed became one of Africa’s youngest leaders when he was selected by the EPRDF as prime minister following the resignation of Hailemariam Desalegn. He was more or like a manager for the country.
• Abiy wasted little time in accelerating the reform agenda, which included lifting the state of emergency, releasing political prisoners, and announcing plans to revise repressive laws.
• Much remains to be done, but a transition to democracy and respect for fundamental rights in Ethiopia would be a substantial victory for democratic governance worldwide, at a time when too many countries are moving in the opposite direction.
• Constitutionally Ethiopia is a federal democratic state although in practice it is dominated by one political coalition. The opposition parties claim they have no chance of challenging the incumbent.
• The rural majority, as ever, feel controlled from above, unable to influence political decisions. Observers describe elections as manipulated and non-representative of the will of the people for whom the word "democracy" frequently appears to be synonymous with domination and coercion. Democracy is a concept reflecting European philosophies, struggles and concerns.
• Many Ethiopian ethnic groups have traditions which may offer more satisfactory and culturally acceptable foundations for a "sovereignty of the people" through time-honoured ways of voicing political ideas, ironic observations and vital interests. In line with modern urban life Ethiopians also organise and express their interests in non-governmental organisations, the independent press and advocacy groups representing political and social alternatives.