The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) awarded Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed the Félix Houphouët-Boigny Prize for Peace for his commendable work in pursuit of peace.
“Abiy Ahmed Ali, Prime Minister of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, is named as laureate of the 2019 edition of the Félix Houphouët-Boigny Peace Prize for his actions in the region and, in particular, for having been the instigator of a peace agreement between the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and Eritrea,” the organization said in a statement.
It also said the “jury also recognizes the laureate’s worthiness for the reforms undertaken to consolidate democracy and social cohesion. Finally, the jury considers this distinction as an encouragement to pursue his commitment to the promotion of a culture of peace in the region and across the African continent.”
The Prize is intended to honor living individuals and active public or private institutions or bodies that have made a significant contribution to promoting, seeking, safeguarding or maintaining peace in conformity with the Charter of the United Nations and the Constitution of UNESCO.
Peace and stability is a fundamental issue to all human beings. Especially in the developing countries including many parts of Africa, it has been a highly longed for element of human life. Many have missed it for more than two or three decades, if not more. Hence, leadership that easily garners peace and stability deserves to be accorded due recognition so that all politicians can do their best or pay the necessary sacrifice to realize peace and stability.
Dr. Abiy can negotiate with any armed struggles and actual end to the hate and anger due to power interest and the need to build democratic country; he will deserve the prize for sure.
Hundreds of websites, blogs and satellite-TV channels have been unblocked since Abiy Ahmed took office as prime minister in April last year. For the first time in 13 years there are no journalists in prison; no fewer than 23 publications and six privately owned satellite channels have been given licenses by the Ethiopian Broadcasting Authority since July.
For his contribution for pursuit of peace, the Office of the Prime Minister announced yesterday.
Since coming to office over a year ago, the premier’s administration resulted in the homecoming of exiled political leaders, including those who opted for putting arms to rest.
Thousands of political prisoners have also been set free, not to mention the release of top leaders of oppositions.
Abiy’s efforts also unified the split Ethiopian Orthodox Church Holy Synod, while contributing to unity, agrees to accept border ruling giving disputed territory to Eritrea, appoints women to half of ministerial posts.
The pace of change in Ethiopia has been so fast since Abiy Ahmed became prime minister in April that it is almost like observing a different country.
The reforms he has introduced were unthinkable not so long ago. The government seemed impervious to criticism from human rights groups that the state stifled free expression, sidelined and imprisoned opposition leaders and cracked down on protests.
Along with the recognition, leaders like Dr.Abiy need due collaboration from regional and international institutions, countries and concerned people so as to extend the outcome of their hard won efforts to all those who need it.
The Ethiopian Herald May 04/ 2011
