Prime Minister Abiy Stresses Need for Cooperation, Not Only Competition Among Political Parties

Addis Ababa, June 20, 2025 (ENA)— Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed noted that political competition alone is not enough in building Ethiopia for cooperation is needed in development.

The premier held discussion with representatives of competing political parties from across the country.

 The PM, who described the discussion as part of the reform in the political landscape, added that "our door is open to work collaboratively with competitors that have ideas."

 The main requirement for this is a level-headed approach to ensure that Ethiopia remains a great country by both the government and competing political parties.

 Drawing from his experience working alongside leaders of competing parties currently serving in the cabinet, the premier explained that both parties have debated, disagreed, and collaborated on issues ranging from macroeconomic policy to governance in the past four years.

 This kind of engagement is far more productive than conflict or persecution, he stressed.

 

 For him, competition alone is not enough to build a nation. That is why there is a need for cooperation. Building Ethiopia together is always better.

 This approach is not just rhetorical, the PM said, noting that he has said it, written it, and is striving to live by it. "If these efforts are not yet complete, we will continue to build upon them."

 Acknowledging the limitations in Ethiopia’s due to lack of democratic practices, he underscored the importance of recognizing and addressing existing gaps.

 Among the issues raised by competing political parties at zonal and woreda levels during the earlier discussion, over 30 have already been resolved across all regions, he stated.

 

To further support political inclusiveness, the National Election Board is deploying senior officials to investigate and address structural challenges at the local level, ensuring accountability and responsiveness throughout the system.

 And when we meet like this, it’s not just about talking, it’s about taking input and improving, the prime minister said.