The theme of this editorial is a topic we are compelled to address even though we have opined about it on several occasions. As he is inclined to do Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) used words like “astonishing” and “truly miraculous” to describe the achievements of his administration “despite confronting numerous formidable challenges “in the over seven years he has been in office in a lengthy interview he conducted with the state broadcaster Ethiopian Broadcasting Corporation. True, his predecessors also often chose to highlight their accomplishments, celebrating what they held out to be milestones achieved in advancing civil and political rights, economic growth, social justice, and diplomatic efforts. While acknowledging progress is important, an overemphasis on achievements at the expense of confronting pressing challenges can be perilous. It is imperative that the Ethiopian government shifts its focus from self-congratulatory rhetoric to earnest engagement with the complex problems that threaten the country’s stability, development, and social fabric. Failing to do so risks undermining the very foundation upon which sustained progress can be built.
The premier’s tenure got off to an auspicious start thanks to the slew of political and economic reforms his administration introduced soon after he came to power. These achievements are undeniably important, and celebrating them can inspire national pride and collective effort. However, when such successes become the primary narrative, it risks masking the reality that significant problems persist beneath the surface. The danger of excessive self-praise is that it can breed complacency—a step away from addressing thematic challenges that require urgent solutions. Ethiopia is grappling with a host of crises: political instability, economic hardship, human rights violations, and an already fragile social cohesion strained further by recent conflicts in large swathes of the country. These issues threaten the country’s unity and long-term stability. Constantly extolling achievements can distract leadership from the hard, often uncomfortable, work of solving these problems. Such a mindset conveys that enough has been done, discouraging innovation and reform. Yet, the truth remains that without concerted efforts to resolve conflicts, ensure inclusive governance, reform institutions, and promote social justice, progress remains superficial and fragile.
The government has occasionally accepted responsibility for some of the challenges besetting the country. Prime Minister Abiy has time and again emphasized the need for peace and reconciliation. However, these statements have seldom been translated into action. For instance, the national dialogue underway, which was intended to address the country’s long-running divisions, has been called out for lacking inclusivity and transparency. Similarly, efforts to reform the security sector and address human rights abuses have neither been vigorous nor consistent. Furthermore, the government’s economic policies have exacerbated suffering, leaving millions unable to afford basics like food and fuel. It is thus time that the government starts acknowledging the full extent of the challenges facing the country, rather than downplaying or denying them. This calls for a willingness to listen to diverse voices, including those of opposition groups, civil society, and aggrieved communities, as well as a demonstrable commitment to transparency and accountability, both in addressing past wrongs and in implementing future reforms.
Nation building demands honesty. The government must acknowledge that Ethiopia’s journey is far from complete and that many challenges persist or have even worsened. Recognizing shortcomings is not a sign of failure; it is an essential step toward implementing effective solutions. It fosters a culture of humility, openness, and accountability—crucial elements for genuine progress. Honest self-assessment also encourages inclusive dialogue among stakeholders, civil society, opposition groups, and marginalized communities. This dialogue can reveal nuanced realities that a polished narrative of success might overlook. Addressing these issues head-on lays the foundation for sustainable peace, economic stability, and social harmony.
The disconnect between rhetoric and reality erodes public trust. Maintaining public trust is essential for a healthy democracy and national stability. When the government spends more time celebrating laurels than addressing hardships, it risks alienating ordinary citizens who experience daily struggles. Dissatisfaction can manifest in protests, disengagement, and even civil unrest if people feel ignored or deceived. Sincerity and transparency are of paramount importance. Governments that openly discuss their challenges, articulate clear strategies to overcome them, and demonstrate progress through measurable results build credibility with their citizens. These actions motivate collective effort and strengthen national resilience.
Moving forward the government must choose between two courses of action: continue cloaking failures with empty propaganda, or engage in soul searching and confront the hard truths that can do the nation immense harm. Its habit of attaching priority to optics over substance is not just misleading—it is liable to be counterproductive. That is why it is incumbent on Ethiopia’s leaders to abandon hollow triumphalism and address the root causes of the nation’s crises. Failure is bound to have dire consequences for the country and its people.
