Addis Ababa—Ethiopian President Sahle-Work Zewde’s recent message on X (formerly Twitter) has triggered a wave of political speculations regarding her position under Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s government. Posted on Saturday, the president’s three-line message, written in Amharic, hints at deep personal discontent and has been interpreted by some as a subtle critique of the political atmosphere in Ethiopia.
President Sahle-Work, who is Ethiopia’s first female head of state, used a poetic expression in her message, drawing from lyrics by prominent Ethiopian singers, including Tilahun Gessese, Teddy Afro, Ali Bira, and Mahmud Ahmed. In her post, she wrote, “When a person feels sorrow, when pushed by time just like when a man pushes; when there is no way out, the only hope is silence.”
Her choice of words and the use of her personal X account for this post have raised eyebrows, particularly among critics of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s administration. Some activists, especially those opposing the government, see the message as a reflection of the president’s frustrations with the current state of affairs, especially concerning the rising tensions and violence across the country.
This is not the first time Sahle-Work has voiced concerns. In several public speeches earlier this year, the president made veiled but critical remarks about the government’s handling of internal conflicts. During the inauguration of the Adwa Museum in February, she called for dialogue, urging all parties to “come to their senses” to resolve the ongoing crisis. In April, speaking at an event in Addis Ababa, she was even more direct, stating, “We cannot continue like this,” and criticized the government for failing to implement meaningful dialogue, dismissing efforts as “lip service.”
The president has also expressed concern over the persecution of Ethiopian Orthodox Church followers, particularly in the Oromia region. Her outspokenness has led to increasing rumors that she is under scrutiny by the Abiy administration, with reports suggesting that she is under surveillance. Ethio Chronicles, a local outlet, reported that her security detail closely monitors her activities, implying a growing mistrust between the president and the administration.
These tensions come amid a broader backdrop of conflict in Ethiopia. Earlier this week, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s government launched what it called a “final military campaign” in the Amhara region, deploying over 40,000 additional troops to quell ongoing unrest. Since August 2023, when the government declared war in the region, violence has escalated. A U.S.-based Amhara advocacy organization claims that over 3,000 civilians have been killed, although the true toll may be higher due to communication blackouts and restricted access to journalists and human rights observers.
The situation in the Amhara region has fueled accusations that Abiy’s government, dominated by members of the Oromumma ideology, is sidelining other ethnic groups. The president’s latest message on X has been interpreted by many as an expression of her dissatisfaction with the government’s hardline approach, especially toward ethnic and religious groups.
The timing of Sahle-Work’s cryptic message has intensified speculation that she may be experiencing growing political isolation within the government. Some see her post as a symbolic act of defiance, pointing to the fact that the president rarely uses social media for personal commentary. Activists opposing Abiy Ahmed’s government have seized on the message, suggesting it reveals deeper cracks in the administration.
While the president’s role in Ethiopia is largely ceremonial, Sahle-Work Zewde has taken a more active stance on key issues, particularly concerning national unity and peace. Her call for dialogue and peace contrasts sharply with the government’s current military strategies, fueling further speculation that her relationship with Abiy Ahmed is strained.
As Ethiopia faces increasing internal conflict and ethnic violence, the president’s message on X has reignited debates about the government’s ability to manage its diverse population and regions. The tensions between Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s administration and various ethnic groups, particularly in the Amhara region, show no signs of abating. And with Sahle-Work’s subtle yet significant message, questions about the president’s future role—and the country’s direction—are intensifying.
For now, what remains clear is that President Sahle-Work Zewde, once seen as a symbol of national unity, appears to be signaling disillusionment. Her message has struck a chord with many Ethiopians who share her concerns about the country’s political trajectory. However, how this sentiment will shape Ethiopia’s future remains uncertain, as the government continues its military operations and political challenges deepen.
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