Ethiopia Appoints New President

Taye Astike Selassie Replaces Sahle-Work Zewde Amid Political Rift

Ethiopian new president, Taye Astike Selassie. Credit: BBC

Ethiopia's parliament has recently approved the appointment of Taye Astike Selassie as the country's new president, marking the end of Sahle-Work Zewde's tenure as the nation's first female head of state. While the presidency in Ethiopia is largely ceremonial, Sahle-Work's appointment in 2018 was widely celebrated as a milestone for gender equality in Ethiopian politics. Her leadership was seen as a progressive step, reflecting a broader push to include women in high-ranking government roles, as advocated by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in his early reforms.

Ethiopian ex-president, Sahle-Work Zewde. Credit: ZimLive

However, reports suggest that Sahle-Work's relationship with Abiy soured in recent years, ultimately leading to her replacement. Though details remain speculative, several factors might have contributed to their falling out. Sahle-Work was known for her diplomatic demeanor and commitment to advancing peace and gender equality. In contrast, Abiy's administration has been increasingly marked by challenges, including internal conflicts, ethnic tensions, and strained relationships with various factions. As tensions escalated in regions like Tigray, differences in approach to governance and policy may have deepened the rift between them.

Additionally, Sahle-Work might have sought to maintain an independent voice, balancing her ceremonial role with the responsibility of advocating for peace and unity. Abiy, facing significant domestic and international pressure, could have viewed this as a divergence from his leadership approach. As Abiy's influence grew stronger, the position of the presidency may have become more restricted, pushing Sahle-Work into a difficult position where her vision for Ethiopia's future no longer aligned with Abiy's priorities.

Taye Astike Selassie's appointment signals a new chapter in Ethiopia's political landscape, though the dynamics between the presidency and prime ministerial power remain closely intertwined. For many, Sahle-Work's departure raises questions about the long-term prospects for gender equality and independent leadership in Ethiopia.