A Vexing Question in Ethiopa’s Intra Party Governance

What is it about?

This paper explores how leadership is chosen within political parties in Ethiopia and its impact on the country’s overall democratic progress. The authors argue that when parties do not conduct fair and democratic elections for their leaders, it weakens the parties themselves and hinders the push for democracy in Ethiopia. To understand these issues, the researchers conducted in-depth interviews and group discussions across various cities, including Addis Ababa, Debre Zeit, Hawassa, and Bahir Dar, gathering insights from 16 key informants over several months. The study focuses on five selected political parties and compares their leadership selection processes. It reveals that parties that empower their members to elect leaders are more likely to contribute positively to democracy in society. By highlighting these findings, the authors aim to shed light on the importance of democratic practices within political parties, suggesting that improving leadership selection could play a crucial role in fostering a healthier democratic environment in Ethiopia. This work is intended for anyone interested in understanding the challenges and opportunities within Ethiopian politics and the essential role of party structures in promoting democracy.

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