Abdur Rahman Alfa Shaban with EUROPEAN UNION EXTERNAL ACTION
The High Representative of the European Union (EU) for
Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Federica Mogherini, has tasked the
Ethiopian Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn to respect democratic principles
and civil rights in the country.
Mogherini, who is also Vice-President
of the European Commission said there was the need to initiate an inclusive
political dialogue within the shortest possible time. The dialogue ‘‘will
require space, not restriction,” an EU statement said.
She further underlined the need for
transparency and determined engagement by the government to respond to the
grievances of the population. The EU said it expected the opening up of the
democratic space, and respect of fundamental freedoms.
The two leaders, spoke in a phone
call, where they discussed developments in the country – particularly the
recently imposed six-month state of emergency.
The EU chief expressed concern over
the curfew imposed on October 9 and its possible effect on democratic
principles and civil rights of citizens. The Prime Minister on his part assured
that the state of emergency will not breach human rights protected by the
Ethiopian constitution.
The PM had earlier this week assured
that plans were underway for electoral reforms and the EU further urged that
necessary political reforms are conducted to achieve this goal.
Mogherini also emphasized that talks
between the government and opposition if done expeditiously will provide an
inclusive economy with benefits for all, notably the youth.
Source: Africa News
No comments:
Post a Comment