Several countries including the US today congratulated Ethiopia on National Day. But like most other things, national day has also become controversial in Ethiopia. No activities were organized by the Ethiopian government on Ginbot 20 (May 28).
US Secretary of State in his message of congratulation said,” On behalf of the United States of America, I extend our best wishes to Ethiopia as you celebrate your National Day. As we commemorate 120 years of diplomatic relations, we look forward to strengthening and deepening ties between Ethiopians and Americans. The United States will support efforts to advance peace through dialogue, ensure our mutual economic security, and cooperatively tackle global issues such as climate change and health. The American people stand with the Ethiopian people as you endeavor to overcome challenges and deliver a brighter future. Please accept my warmest congratulations on this occasion.”
Several other countries also sent messages of congratulation but no response from the Ethiopian government.
It was May 28, 1991 that Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) led EPRDF (Ethiopian People’s Revolutionary Democratic Front) took over the capital city after years of armed struggle. Derg communist government led by military officer Mengistu Hailemariam was removed. US welcomed the removal of Derg. From 1991 to 2018, TPLF-led EPRDF remained in power. During all these years, May 28 was celebrated as the National Day.
But things changed after PM Abiy Ahmed came to power. EPRDF was dissolved. TPLF refused to be part of new Prosperity Party which is the party in power now. Then war broke out between TPLF and Federal forces in November 2020 which ended in November 2022.
Some PP leaders and parties see 28th May 1991 as the day when TPLF imposed hegemony in Ethiopia. They are against celebration of this day as National Day. New National Holiday Calendar does not include 28 May, but it has not been ratified by parliament.
No statement was issued by Ethiopian federal government about National Day today. No official ceremonies were organized. Only Tigray Interim government issued a statement in this regard. It seems that the Prosperity Party government sees May 28 as a controversial day. It does not want to celebrate it officially.
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