Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Calls for Perseverance and Renewal in Easter Message

April 4, 2018

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has extended warm message to Christians across Ethiopia and beyond on the Feast of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. 

In his message, the Prime Minister emphasized the spiritual significance of Easter, describing it as a celebration where “death is abolished and life is guaranteed,” and where the resurrection affirms that the grave is not the end.

Reflecting on Ethiopia’s current challenges, Prime Minister Abiy related the nation’s journey to the challenges faced before the resurrection, noting that despite obstacles and darkness, hope and renewal remain risen. He urged citizens to persevere, drawing parallels between the biblical story of resurrection and Ethiopia’s path toward peace, democracy, and prosperity.

The Prime Minister highlighted the different responses to the resurrection story, those who were steadfast, hopeful, doubtful, despairing, or spreading rumors, and compared them to attitudes within Ethiopia today. He stressed that true progress requires sacrifice, courage, and determination, while warning against despair and misinformation.

The Prime Minister declared that Ethiopia is “Witnessing true resurrection,” symbolizing the country’s resilience and determination to overcome hardship. He underscored that the upcoming national election in May represents one chapter in this broader resurrection, reminding citizens that democracy, like resurrection, cannot be achieved without efforts and perseverance.

“Democracy and prosperity cannot be built on a smooth path,” he stated, urging Ethiopians to embrace patience and endurance as the foundation for lasting change. He called on the nation to strive together for Ethiopia’s renewal, believing that strength and perseverance will lead the country out of poverty and toward democratic progress.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed wished all Ethiopians a joyful Easter, reaffirming his hope that the spirit of resurrection will inspire unity, resilience, and a collective commitment to Ethiopia’s future.