The 11th Congress of the Ethiopian People’s Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF) kicked off today in the city of Hawassa, under the theme “National Unity for All Rounded Prosperity.”
In his opening remark, Chairperson of EPRDF and Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Dr Abiy Ahmed, said the Congress would focus on tackling unemployment and problems of good governance as well as addressing other socio-economic problems.
It will also deliberate on ensuring the rule of law, he added.
The Premier further said that the 11th Congress is historical as it comes at a time when “we are into a course of change.”
The EPRDF will continue to lead the country by being an engine of change and addressing challenges ahead just as it did in the past, he added.
The Prime Minister further said that EPRDF would endeavour to sustain the reform by integrating young leaders with the experienced ones.
He underscored the need to “build a country that has a room for yesterday and today.”
“Succession of leadership should be planned and build on the gains of the past with a sense of gratitude,” he said.
“A political culture that discourages the past achievements of our predecessors and negates the efforts of the previous generation need to stop.”
“If we want to pass a prosperous nation to the next generation, we should join hands regardless of race, ethnicity, and religion as well as avoid robbery and inter-weaving,” the Premier said.
Stating that “we are at a juncture where we could make a new history,” he pledged to scale up the process launched to widen the political space in the country.
The Premier also highlighted the importance of guaranteeing freedom of movement and the rights of people to work anywhere in the country.
After welcoming participants of the Congress, Chairperson of the Southern Ethiopian People’s Democratic Movement (SEPDM), Muferiat Kamil, said: “it is my belief that the Congress will set directions that are important to cement unity of the country.”
A total of 2000 people, including 1,000 voting members drawn from the four member parties of EPRDF, are taking part in the Congress.
Other participants include, among others, representatives of affiliate organisations, competing political parties and guests from abroad.
