Addis Ababa: US President Barack Obama’s visit to Ethiopia, which saw him speak out against democratic restrictions, was positive but Washington must maintain pressure on the government, an Ethiopian opposition figure said today.
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“I think if I ran, I could win”, he said. “Now let me be honest with you – I do not understand this”, the president said.
The president said the African Union should use its authority to help ensure that leaders throughout the continent abide by their term limits.
Obama called on African leaders to draw inspiration from late former South African president Nelson Mandela who “forged a lasting legacy by being willing to leave office and transfer power peacefully”.
That rule pertains to term limits, but also to “making sure that capital flows are properly accounted for”, opening Africa’s economic potential by “ending the cancer of corruption“, and looking “internally” because “the biggest markets for your goods are often right next door”. He used his own example to encourage African leaders to allow new leadership.
Noting the growing threat of the terrorist group, al Shabaab, Obama told the crowd that the U.S. will intensify its cooperation with the Kenyan government in its ongoing battle. Ethiopia might not have “presidents for life”, but Hailemariam’s predecessor, Meles Zenawi, served for 17 years before dying in office and being replaced by the party’s chosen successor.
He adds that Obama’s speech at the African Union comes at a key moment.
The president made these statements during a speech criticizing African leaders who refuse to step aside at the conclusion of their terms.
Merara Gudina, a leading opposition figure in Ethiopia, said he was doubtful that the United States would push hard for democratic change in his country, and expressed concern that Obamas visit would end up being another public relations exercise..
Some African activists have greeted President Barack Obama’s remarks that Ethiopia has a democratically elected government with scorn and concern.
Obama’s connections to Africa garnered oversized expectations for what his tenure as U.S. president would mean for the continent.
“As a father, I believe that my two daughters have to have the same chance to pursue their dreams as anybody’s son – and that same thing holds true for girls here in Africa”, Obama said.
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“As Africa stands against terror and conflict, I want you to know the United States stands with you”, he said, highlighting threats ranging from Somalia’s Shebab, Boko Haram in Nigeria, insurgents in Mali and Tunisia, and the Uganda-led Lord’s Resistance Army rebels in central Africa.
