Ethiopia witnessed a historic political shift on October 7, 2024, as Sahle-Work Zewde, the country’s first female president, stepped down after serving since 2018 amidst speculation of tensions with the government. The Ethiopian parliament swiftly appointed Taye Atske-Selassie, a seasoned diplomat, as the new president in a brief ceremony in Addis Ababa.
Sahle-Work’s presidency symbolized significant progress in Ethiopian society under Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s early reforms. Advocating for gender equality, peace in the Horn of Africa, and climate action, her tenure faced limitations due to the ceremonial nature of the Ethiopian presidency.
Taye Atske-Selassie’s appointment brings extensive diplomatic experience to his new role, born in the Amhara region and well-educated. As he assumes office amidst ongoing ethnic tensions and the need for further reforms, Sahle-Work’s departure impacts female leadership in Africa, with Tanzania’s Samia Suluhu Hassan as the continent’s sole female head of state.
As Ethiopia navigates opportunities and obstacles, the transition emphasizes the importance of inclusive governance and the ongoing struggle for gender parity in African politics. It serves as a reminder of the challenges in achieving equal representation in leadership roles and addressing longstanding issues.