ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia – Ethiopia stepped into a new era Monday as Ambassador Taye Atske Selassie was appointed as the nation’s president. This change comes against a backdrop of icy relations with neighboring Somalia, following the end of President Sahle-Work Zewde’s term.
Once Ethiopia’s Foreign Minister, Ambassador Taye Atske Selassie took the ceremonial helm after a joint vote in the People’s House of Representatives and the House of Federation, committing to lead for the next four years.
During the formal proceedings, Taye Atske was sworn in, receiving Ethiopia’s constitution from former President Sahle-Work Zewde. Though largely symbolic, the role of the president contrasts with that of the Prime Minister, who wields the real power within the government.
The opening session which marked this transition was attended by a bevy of notable figures, including Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, the previous president Sahle-Work Zewde, top parliamentarians, and invited dignitaries, as reported by Addis Standard.
As one of his first acts, President Taye rolled out the federal plan for the ongoing fiscal year, prompting engaged discussions among members of parliament. His previous position as Foreign Minister adds a layer of complexity to his presidency.
His appointment arises amidst Ethiopia being accused of encroaching on Somali territory, following the secretly signed agreement with North Western State of Somalia for 20 kilometers of Red Sea access in return for its recognition as an independent nation—a move that has irked Somalia immensely.
Diplomatic conversations between Ethiopia and Somalia are stalled as Somalia demands the annulment of the contentious MoU.
Moreover, Somalia firmly refused to include Ethiopian National Defense Forces in the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), the successor to the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), slated to commence in January 2025.
AXADLETM
