The nomination of former exile and popular opposition figure, Birtukan Mideksa, has been passed by Ethiopian lawmakers today.
Mideksa, a former judge who served as a harsh critic of the ruling coalition before facing exile in the United States for 7 years, was previously nominated by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to head the country’s National Election Board as confirmed by the Addis Standard earlier in the week.
Following Ahmed’s dedication to transparency and equality in government, Mideksa’s appointment puts her among over 20 women who have been given key public positions of power in his government. This is in addition to last month’s parliamentary approval of Sahle-Work Zewde as the country’s first female president, which also shows the country’s commitment to gender parity.
Charged with the responsibility of restoring faith in Ethiopia’s electoral system, Mideksa was a part of almost a dozen opposition leaders jailed in 2005, following the elections that led to the death of over 200 Ethiopians. She is also responsible for founding the Unity for Democracy and Justice (UDJ) Party, previously working with other opposition parties such as the Social Justice and Coalition for Unity and Democracy, and Rainbow Ethiopia: Movement for Democracy.
Considering the results from the last two elections, which were heavily criticised by the international community and opposition parties, the Ethiopian people have been skeptical about the forthcoming 2020 polls, the first competitive election in 15 years, hopefully.
Commenting on her appointment, Mideksa said: “The Ethiopian people are ready to build the democratic system they want and to hold the government accountable– even though there is a lot to be done, we are seeing many institutional reforms in many directions. These are good opportunities.”
Mideksa also joins several exiles who have flooded back into the country, following the assumption of Prime Minister Ahmed seven months ago. With joint efforts being made, they hope to push Ethiopia towards the democratic glory it deserves.
Ahead of the 2020 elections, Prime Minister Ahmed has promised a free and fair process. Mideksa is a part of the puzzle in making this a success as her reputation as a tireless crusader of justice has gained international acclaim.
