Ethiopia’s New Presidency Amid Ongoing Tensions with Somalia

Ethiopia has inaugurated Ambassador Taye Atske Selassie as its new president following the term completion of Sahle-Work Zewde. This change occurs during heightened tensions with Somalia over territorial agreements involving Somaliland. Taye, previously the Minister of Foreign Affairs, faces significant diplomatic challenges, including Somalia’s reaction to Ethiopia’s recognition of Somaliland.

Ethiopia has appointed a new president, Ambassador Taye Atske Selassie, following the conclusion of President Sahle-Work Zewde’s term. This transition occurs amidst ongoing tensions with neighboring Somalia, particularly regarding issues related to territorial integrity and sovereignty. Ambassador Taye, who previously served as Ethiopia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, was elected during a joint session of the People’s Representatives and the House of Federation, where he was also sworn in for a four-year term. As the ceremonial head of state in Ethiopia, his role functions primarily alongside the Prime Minister, who exercises the core governmental authority. In his inaugural address, President Taye unveiled the federal government’s annual plan for the current fiscal year, an event attended by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, members of the outgoing administration, and parliamentarians. The new president’s assumption of office coincides with Ethiopia’s controversial MoU with Somaliland, which has intensified accusations of encroaching upon Somali territorial claims. By granting Somaliland 20 kilometers of access to the Red Sea, Ethiopia has pledged to recognize it as an independent state, leading to strong objections from Somalia. Furthermore, diplomatic efforts to mediate the disagreement have yet to yield results, prompting Somalia to officially exclude Ethiopian military involvement in the forthcoming African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), set to replace the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) in January 2025.

The new appointment of President Taye Atske Selassie occurs at a time when Ethiopia’s relations with Somalia are notably strained. The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Somaliland has triggered diplomatic controversies, as Somaliland seeks independent recognition while Somalia asserts claims over the territory. This situation reflects broader regional geopolitical dynamics and internal national interests that challenge the traditional roles of statehood and sovereignty in the Horn of Africa. The Ethiopian government has faced backlash for what Somalia perceives as encroachment on its sovereignty, resulting in poising bilateral relations at a precarious junction. The unfolding events will potentially shape the security landscape in both countries and influence broader engagements within the African Union framework.

The appointment of Ambassador Taye Atske Selassie as the new president of Ethiopia marks a significant moment for the nation, especially amid turbulent relationships with Somalia due to conflicting territorial claims. While he steps into a role that is largely ceremonial, President Taye’s leadership will be scrutinized regarding Ethiopia’s approach to its neighbors and international commitments. The region awaits the government’s maneuvers to diffuse the existing tensions, particularly concerning the controversial MoU with Somaliland, and how these actions will impact the potential for stability within the Horn of Africa.

Original Source: www.garoweonline.com