The past 10 months have been
extraordinary for Ethiopia and Ethiopians around the world. The changes in
Ethiopia have exceeded expectations. Groups and individuals labelled as
terrorists by the TPLF led clique are now functioning freely in Ethiopia. Journalists, bloggers, political activists
and human rights campaigners are free. Thousands of political prisoners have
been released. Thousands of Ethiopians diaspora members have returned home and
reunited with their loved ones. Lots of encouraging stuff have happened. These
give me hope and I remain hopeful.
We cannot, however, deny the
challenges the new administration has been faced with. But I also know, and
many others as well know, that Rome was not built in a day. Democratic culture
cannot be built over night. It takes time and needs our patience and perseverance.
This culture cannot also be built by a few political elites. It needs the
active participation of the majority. We cannot win by being onlookers. We
cannot win by being blockers. We cannot win by only having a good will. We can
only win when we roll our sleeves and do the right thing practically. We need
to act. Action will bring a reaction.
In the meantime, I remain
hopeful that the changes in Ethiopia will last long and meet the expectations
of the majority. I also remain hopeful many engage practically and help
Ethiopia succeed. After all, life is too short, and we cannot afford to lose
the once in a life time opportunity we have at hand. Hence, I remain hopeful
that Dr. Abiy and his team deliver on their promise. I also remain hopeful that the main
opposition parties deliver what is expected of them and help Ethiopia go into
a new era.
Going into the Era of Hope
together.
