Ethiopian Review Editorial
September 21, 2005

On May 15, 2005, the overwhelming majority of registered voters in Ethiopia voted for CUD. It was a vote of confidence for the coalition, particularly for AEUP and UEDP-Medhin, since the two received the largest vote by far. As it has been confirmed by the Carter Center and EU’s reports, the ruling party claimed victory by committing various forms of vote fraud. When students attempted to peacefully stage a demonstration to protest the rigged elections, the ruling party deployed its military force and savagely attacked and killed innocent civilians. To date, the country is under siege by Meles Zenawi’s special forces that are terrorizing the public. It is a testimony to the ruling party’s despotic nature.

The leaders of CUD have the responsibility to continue to fight on behalf of millions of Ethiopians whose votes were stolen by the ruling party. For his unwavering commitment to safeguard the interests of the voters, the Chairman of CUD, Ato Hailu Shawel, should be bestowed the highest honor. He is an example of a principled political leader who is willing to sacrifice every thing for the benefit of the people.

Ato Hailu Shawel is not only a Chairman of CUD but also AEUP, a party that brought the largest vote for CUD. His views and decisions represent a large majority of the people. The pronouncement he made on Sunday not to allow CUD to be used to give legitimacy to EPRDF parliament is timely and appropriate. The decision is not politically expedient, but reflects the public’s disposition. And we thank him for his leadership.

We would like to take this opportunity to appeal to all the political parties and civic groups to show solidarity with CUD Chairman Hailu Shawel.