-Diplomats, political leaders unite in mourning death of Prof. Beyene
ADDIS ABABA – Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) expressed his condolences over the passing of renowned politician Prof. Beyene Petros, known for advocating peaceful political struggle, leading the Ethiopian Social Democratic Party for over three decades.
In his message posted on X social media, Prime Minister Abiy wrote that he is deeply saddened to hear of Prof. Beyene’s passing after a prolonged period of medical care.
Prime Minister Abiy highlighted “Professor Beyene embodied the spirit of peaceful political struggle and played a crucial role in fostering non-violence and constructive political dialogue in Ethiopia”.
Chairperson of the Political Parties Joint Council, Desta Dinka, also reflected on the late professor’s legacy. In an interview with the Ethiopian Press Agency (EPA), Desta remarked that “Prof. Beyene was a politician of peaceful and democratic principles. I had a good relationship with him, and we shared many positive experiences while working together in other institutions. He was a good leader.”
Desta further noted that Prof. Beyene’s commitment to peaceful political struggle stands in stark contrast to many Ethiopian politicians who often propagate conflict. “In a country where political conflict is common, such dedication to peace can demand great sacrifice. Prof. Beyene made those sacrifices because of his peace-loving principles,” he added.
The international community in Addis Ababa has also begun to express condolences. The Chinese Embassy in Addis Ababa described Prof. Beyene’s passing as “heart-wrenching,” as reported by Fana Broadcasting Corporate.
“As a contributor to and witness of the Ethio-China development over the past decades, he had profound insights into diplomatic relations and was a good friend to many Chinese.” the embassy remarked.
Beyene Petros was a Professor of Biology at Addis Ababa University. He also served as the State Minister of Education for a few years during the transitional government following the downfall of the Derg regime. Since 2019, he had been the Director General of the Policy Studies Institute until his passing.
The veteran politician and biological researcher had 120 research publications to his name, some co-authored with other scholars, The Ethiopian Herald learnt.
BY YESUF ENDRIS
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD WEDNESDAY 18 SEPTEMBER 2024
