The former headquarters of the National Bank of Ethiopia, now serving as a Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (CBE) branch on Churchill Avenue, recently drew public attention online, but not for the right reasons. Few backed the bank’s decision when it started constructing a new small ground-plus-one guard post that began obstructing the view of the building for commuters waiting at the nearby traffic light. Their disappointment quickly spread across social media platforms, particularly Facebook, prompting public criticism. Within days, the unfinished structure was demolished, highlighting the growing influence of digital platforms in shaping public conversations, even when they are often criticised for other reasons. Designed by French architect Henri Chomette in 1953, the circular structure was originally built for the State Bank of Ethiopia.

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