Hunger for Security, Thirst for Justice

Mar 23 , 2024
By Kidist Yidnekachew

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Imagine the disappointment of ordering a sizzling steak and receiving a plate of lettuce. That is what I feel about the current state of affairs in Ethiopia. A chasm separates the government from the people it serves. Officials seem oblivious to the daily struggles of ordinary citizens who wrestle with fundamental needs – security, food, shelter, healthcare, and education. The harsh reality is that obtaining permits for mundane tasks feels like navigating a bureaucratic maze. Citizens should not face such hurdles for simple requirements.

The severity of the situation is undeniable. According to a 2023 UN report, nearly 70 million people in the country face inconsistent access to food, with over 25 million going hungry on some days. This raises serious ethical questions about resource allocation. Significant funds are poured into mega-projects while citizens face hunger pangs. It is troubling to witness the neglect of basic needs in favour of grandiose endeavours that do little to alleviate the immediate suffering of the population.

Lack of transparency and accountability manifests when criticism is silenced, dissent is labelled as opposition and crucial questions are met with misleading narratives. This erodes public trust and nurtures misinformation and manipulation. The suppression of artistic expression and the silencing of dissenting voices are worrying trends that demand attention.

Students who failed the grade 12 national exams highlight deeper systemic issues. The justice system also fails countless individuals. The government's relentless targeting of street vendors stands in stark contrast to the blind eye turned towards more serious criminal activity. It offers no solace to victims like Ayantu Mustafa, who endured a brutal acid attack by her husband. Women facing violence face a similar ordeal, often left without proper justice while their attackers receive minimal repercussions compared to minor offences.

This skewed approach fails to address the real threats to societal security. The glaring discrepancy underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive overhaul of the system.

Governing a nation is undeniably complex. However, cooperation and support from its citizens are crucial for overcoming even the most daunting challenges. Rulers strive for longevity and stability. The proper way to achieve this, in my opinion, is to appease the people by providing them with what they want, at least the essentials. This strategy keeps the populace content and less likely to revolt.

However, stability is fragile and can be easily manipulated by external forces. Ultimately, what the public craves most is a foundation of security and the feeling of being cared for by their government.

Disillusionment, low morale, and a daily struggle for survival dominated the initial wave of hope and unity that swept the nation upon Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's promise of change. A responsive government should strive to understand the genuine needs and desires of its people to effectively serve them.

While reminders that the grass is greener on the other side might uplift morale, sometimes, all the public wants is for its leaders to accept the facts on the ground. The way forward demands an emphasis on basic problems and addressing them. Only then will the gap between rulers and ruled be bridged.

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PUBLISHED ON Mar 23,2024 [ VOL 24 , NO 1247]

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