Ethiopian Premier Declares State of Emergency

Ethiopia's Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) took the country by surprise today by announcing on Twitter the declaration of a state of emergency. The statement attached to his Twitter post attributes the decision to the effort of warding off the spread of Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19).

Invoking Article 93 of the Constitution, the Prime Minister said his administration had been preparing and waiting until absolutely necessary to declare a state of emergency. However, his declaration has to be ratified by parliament within the next 48 hours; and, in the case where parliament is in recess, the decree retains authority for only two weeks, according to constitutional scholars.

The Prime Minister informed the country that this was a necessary step to protect citizens and that his administration will continue to take further steps if required. He urged citizens to stand together to overcome the spread of the virus by helping more vulnerable groups, while he affirmed the state is committed to alleviating economic burdens.

The Prime Minster thanked all those who have played their part in the fight against the virus so far and has condemned those profiteering from this outcome, warning that such actions will be dealt with to the full extent of the law. He has also pleaded for gratitude and support to all those who will continue going out to serve this country daily and that all citizens should follow guidelines from health authorities.

Tracking COVID-19

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Critical in Ethiopia

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Source: Coronavirus monitor API

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