While Ethiopians are readying to welcome and celebrate their New Year-Enkutatash-each of the five days of the transitional month, Pagumen, is designated to mark specific themes. As Government Communication Services State Minister Kebede Desisa stated at a press briefing, each of the five days is assigned as Transition Day, Reform Day, Sovereignty Day, Diversity Day, and Tomorrow’s Day respectively to tribute the social, economic and political progresses made so far as well as to further strengthen national unity and building a future that honors Ethiopia’s sovereignty and diverse heritage.
Today, as we, Ethiopians, are at the third day of Pagumen, which is also the thirteen month of the year, they are marking “Sovereignty Day,” to pay tribute to Ethiopia’s enduring independence, reinforcing the pride in its rich history and efforts to safeguard its autonomy.
In relation to this, The Ethiopian Herald approached the President of the Ethiopian Patriot Association Lij Daniel Jote Mesfin over a phone call to have his insights on the celebration of the “Sovereignty Day.”
The President said: “When we trace back the history of Ethiopia, from the old days to the recent ones, we find how Ethiopians are valiant in defending the territorial integrity and the sovereignty of their country regardless of any internal differences they may exist. History tells that aggressors who attempted to invade the territory of the country tested the united arms of Ethiopians. The whole world also witnessed Ethiopians’ instinctive patriotic feelings, courageousness, unity in defending their country, not only at the Battle of Adwa; but even before, as well as these days.
Ethiopians, by putting aside their differences and standing as one, can demean and send back aggressors who attempted to invade their country at different times and on different occasions. Aggressors, including the Fascist Italian forces, Sudan, and Somalia among others tested the united arms of Ethiopians.
It should be well noted that Ethiopia is Africa’s oldest independent country that has never been colonized by external forces. Following the patriotic spirit of Ethiopians, many agree that Ethiopia is a place where freedom and liberty are valued meaningfully.
According to the President, even though we encounter some challenges, every citizen should be aware that our historical foes are lurking behind us to divide us and dismantle our country. For this reason, the youth should beware of the ill intentions of the country’s historic enemies and work hard to abort their intent and ensure peace through practical, genuine steps and engagements
Any form of differences should come to the roundtable discussions; as peace cannot be gained from the barrel of a gun, but from peaceful dialogue. The Association would like to encourage the various groups who assume they have differences to solve through peaceful engagement.
“In my view, we should not let our historical enemies take advantage and exploit any differences they assume to serve their interest. We should stand in unison. Ethiopians should stand as one and back the National Ethiopian Defense Force (ENDF).”
The heroic feats and the sacrifices that members of the ENDF paid to the country for a century should be noted. Throughout its glorious history, the Defense Force has defended not only the sovereignty and the territorial integrity of the country; but also demonstrated exemplary deeds by taking part in various peacekeeping missions carried out within the region and beyond.
He further noted that celebrating Sovereignty Day in the spirit of unison brings opportunities. It lets the youth identify the true picture of the past, the current and the future Ethiopia. The day can serve as a reminder of the hard-fought freedom and the responsibilities that come with self-determination. What is more, celebrating this day at a national level provides an opportunity to assess the impact of economic sovereignty as economic independence is an essential element to ensure security, detach from foreign dependency and realize a prosperous country.
True, sovereignty embodies a nation’s independence to govern itself without external interference. It is the foundation for national identity and unity, fostering pride among citizens. “In my view, celebrating this day allows citizens to honor their history and recognize the ongoing efforts and strengthen their sovereignty.”
The Ethiopian Patriotic Association understands the adversaries that the government has been navigating through, of course, it came out with victories. These efforts should be further strengthened; there is no way to turn back. The general public should also weigh each step in rationality, and stand for further success.
“As a nation, we do have a number of gaps that should be addressed accordingly. The top priority should be in my view is to exert maximum effort in ensuring food security through projects like Yelemat Tirufat and summer wheat production, the green legacy initiative. If we are able to ensure our food security at a household level, we could build resilience. This self-reliance fosters economic resilience and reduces dependence on foreign economies.”
The young people should enhance their participation in backing Ethiopia’s quest to gain access to the seaports because it promotes the economic liberty of the country.
“We are witnessing regional political turmoil escalating because of Ethiopia’s legal stance to access the sea; we should not let our enemies deceive and prevent Ethiopia from its legal step.”
According to the President, a nation that values its sovereignty is better positioned to engage in assertive diplomacy. Celebrating this day highlights the importance of maintaining strong international relationships while protecting national interests.
“We, Ethiopians, are making history in constructing and filling the Abbay Hydroelectric Dam, which is the largest dam in Africa and holds a promising potential for growth. This project confirms the value of unity. The new blood should know that, the magnanimous deeds, and how they undo matters related with sovereignty matters.”
Citizens play an indispensable role in accelerating the socioeconomic growth of the country. Thus, through active participation, advocacy works and community engagement, it is possible to transform the future of the country. “By coming together, we should reinforce the foundation to building a strong, prosperous Ethiopia, which we aspire to see” he finally added.
BY MENGISTEAB TESHOME
The Ethiopian Herald September 8/2024
