Leadership requires intelligence, knowledge, and the ability to communicate effectively. However, Abiy Ahmed and his officials have consistently shown a lack of basic education, struggling with simple skills such as speaking English and handling basic mathematics. In an increasingly globalized world, where Ethiopia must engage with international partners, these shortcomings become a national embarrassment. Unlike past Ethiopian leaders who could articulate their positions clearly, Abiy’s government is filled with officials who fail to express themselves competently on the world stage.
One of the clearest signs of Abiy’s own educational limitations is his reluctance to speak in English. Unlike previous Ethiopian leaders, who communicated fluently with international audiences, Abiy prefers to avoid English altogether. Some argue that his push to make Amharic the working language of the African Union was meant to promote Ethiopian culture. However, in reality, it reflects his discomfort with international languages, limiting Ethiopia’s influence in global diplomacy. Instead of engaging confidently with world leaders, Abiy often appears withdrawn and unable to represent Ethiopia effectively.
A leader’s ability to handle media scrutiny is a crucial test of competence. Yet, during his time in power, Abiy Ahmed has never given a proper interview to an international journalist. He avoids tough questions and prefers to control the narrative by speaking only to state-controlled media. True leaders face the press, defend their policies, and answer difficult questions. By refusing to engage with independent journalists, Abiy exposes his insecurity and lack of intellectual depth. His officials follow the same pattern—dodging critical discussions and reacting with hostility to any form of scrutiny.
This emotional immaturity is another defining characteristic of Abiy’s administration. Instead of accepting criticism and improving, his government responds with childish mockery and anger. When Ethiopians point out government failures, officials lash out rather than working on solutions. Leadership requires emotional intelligence—the ability to remain calm under pressure, listen to criticism, and make rational decisions. Unfortunately, Abiy and his team often let emotions control them, leading to poor governance and further alienating the people.
This incompetence is not just visible in media interactions but also on the global stage. The mayor of Addis Ababa, like many other officials, has been humiliated in international forums due to a lack of preparation and knowledge. Even Abiy himself has faced embarrassing moments, struggling to articulate Ethiopia’s position in critical meetings. While at home, he acts like a fearless leader, disrespecting his own people, but in front of world leaders, he appears uncomfortable and submissive. Unlike Meles Zenawi, who was frequently invited to G7 and G20 meetings, Abiy is often ignored, proving that the world does not take his leadership seriously.
Ethiopia once had strong, knowledgeable leaders who could confidently represent the nation on global platforms. Under Meles Zenawi, Ethiopia was a respected voice in economic and political discussions. Today, under Abiy Ahmed, the country is losing its credibility. Leadership is not just about holding power—it is about competence, intelligence, and the ability to communicate effectively. Without these qualities, Ethiopia risks further isolation and decline. If Ethiopia wants to reclaim its rightful place in the world, it needs leaders who are educated, emotionally mature, and open to criticism—not an insecure regime that thrives on ignorance.
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