Addis Ababa: Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed articulated that the demand for reparation by Africans transcends the boundaries of charity or financial aid, emphasizing it as a call for justice.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, the prime minister made these remarks in his opening statement at the 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union (AU) held in Addis Ababa. The session’s theme, “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations,” underscores the need to address historical injustices and the lingering trauma that has impeded progress.
Abiy stated, “The demand for reparations is not about charity or financial aid. It is a call for justice.” He highlighted that the theme aims to restore the dignity of millions and heal the profound scars of poverty, inequality, and discrimination. The call for reparations demands an end to the systematic exploitation of wealth, resources, and opportunities, advocating for a transformative process that acknowledges past harms and takes decisive actions to rectify the wrongs inflicted upon society across the continent.
The Prime Minister emphasized that the call for reparations requires not only words but also concrete actions to affirm the equal worth of every human being. In a rapidly changing world fraught with challenges, he stressed the importance of strengthening collective resolve, embracing resilience, and fostering unity across Africa.
Additionally, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed expressed his heartfelt gratitude to outgoing African Union Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat for his exceptional leadership over the past eight years. He praised Faki’s unwavering commitment to Africa’s development, peace, and integration, which significantly bolstered the African Union’s role in addressing the continent’s challenges. Abiy also extended his sincere thanks to Faki for being a steadfast friend to Ethiopia, supporting the country during both successful times and moments of difficulty.