its stance on asseb is atrocious. i support every policy of EPRDF but not on assab. in fact, i am ashamed of meles's comments on asseb port. every good thing meles can be remembered for (economic development, foundation for democracy) will always be marred by his unflinching and pro-eritrea stance on assab.
--alemu
<mailto:aefaefe@yahoo.com>

On party strucure: I would like to re-organize the party as a cohesive party, at least at the federal level. I would have separate organizations - EPRDF party for federal government; and member organiations for each regions. This structure reflects the federal structure of the constitution. Similar countries such as Canada have similar party structures.
On Economy: Controlling inflation must be one of key policy objectives. High inflation has detrimental effects on welfare and growth. Don't confuse inflation control with market intervention.
--Sam
<mailto:amsf@shaw.ca>

EPRDF's party centralization kills all local incentives.TOP EPRDF leaders at least those that we know like YES men. Autonomous, able and constructively critical people have no place within EPRDF,those party life getting boring. EPRDF likes doing things by Zemecha and sustained developmet and improvement on quality of life is enemical to zemecha. EPRDF is becoming less and less accountable to the people and rather becoming more and more open and accountable to donors- democracy is gettng perverted. EPRDF has done little to institutionaize the Rule of law. Now people have started to buy services via MUSINA. Our courts are shamfully in their worst shape and no one dares to go to court hence the resort to illegal means. EPRDF is miserable when it comes to ERitrea. EPRDF has done well in many other respects but the above are some of the many that deserve attention

Economically, primarly due to the effort of the PM we are able to garner world support hence we are doing good interms of GDP only. How ever this is marred by EPRDF's ethnic policy which is a ticking bomb for the soverenity of the country. Now a days it is a problem on the freedom of working in places outside your ethnic origin. There is no previledge what so ever even if you speak the language in that particular place or you are born in that place. Your geneology is what is considered as to where you belong. This is what is killing the country. EPRDF's stubbornnes on aleinating educated citizines who are critical of its policy which is also a major bottle neck in promoting its policies. Major decisions are made by illitrate EPRDF members. It has communist style thinking. EPRDF is ashamed of reversing its policy of seccesion after allowing Eritrea to secede without the consent of Ethiopians. You can't deny a country of 70mil access to the sea which is why we are suffering now (running from Djibouti, sudan, berbera, etc). Even its special treatment to Eritrea didn't pay off as we have lost many lives in just two years time as compared to what we have lost during the derg regime. This is a major blunder EPRDF has done. There is no patriotism these days dueto these policies. If EPRDF was to change this, believe me everyone would have been singing EPRDF's anthem.

EPRDF has already achieved many milestones. it is the hero of ethiopian people especially with development because ethiopia is fastest non-oil producing economy in all of Africa today. this is a big achievement.

if i had power to change, it would experiment on better federalism. especially big cities like addis ababa can not be the center of oromia. Naturally, a Capital city of a region is the urban voice of the region. Unfortunately, the neftenga population in addis ababa is not the voice of oromia!

The derg provincal system harmed the rural population but EPRDF's ethnic federalism has not fully removed rural marginalization. we should experiment with an ethno-provincal federalism and give ethnically mixed regions like addis ababa suroundings areas a provincal status. EPRDF can not afford to have Finfinne neftengas become the voice of oromia. The CUD success in Finfinne was expected but its success in Finfinne is harming the rural Oromia. Oromo people want linguistic and political independence while finfinne is run by neftengas. A new EPRDF reform should include making another big city the financial center of oromia, amhara etc. When Oromo farmers and peasants want to modernize and taste urban life, they are forced into the Amharic-dominated neftenga Addis Ababa system. We need to give these peasant oromos and other rural people another option to modernize without being forced to adopt into neftenga addis ababa. The problem in Ethiopia is we don't have many big cities like america has losangeles, chicago, new york. in Ethiopia we only have one big city. The neftenga control of Addis Ababa should not be allowed to affect the rural empowerment policy of EPRDF. But i fear this problem will grow if we don't take action. So this should be a priority.

anyway, EPRDF is mostly doing excellent work.

God bless MELES!!
God Bless Ethiopia!!
--Girma

Thank you aiga for asking this. I have to be honest. There is no an organisation called EPRDF. I believe all is Meles. The rest is trailer. I do not believe there is democracy or freedom within the party itself because everything is being dictated by one man. If it was not like that TPLF would have divided into two. My big concern there is no party called EPRDF since its members have no freedom. I would rather comment on Meles than EPRDF which is his falsework of Meles.

My points:

1. Meles must be retired peacefully because he is arrogant, autocratic.
2. He is someone who never correct himself. He is someone who repeat mistakes or who is someone who never listen to people and never change or develop with with time.
3. I am tired of Meles to my bones. I do not want even to hear about him anything. I do not hate him,but I found him very unwise and self-inflicting and a disgrace to Ethiopia.

4. If EPRDF has to reform, he must be retired peacefuly and some one who can work with people takeover. After his removal the party must be transormed into a national party its name be changed from front to Ethiopan Nationa party. Its member must enjoy freedom. I do not think the party can fare in his presence since he is an obstacle of unity. He is a problem in Ethiopia. I know he does not undestand but every Ethiopian hate him and even tigreans hate him due to the fact he is against Ethiopia. He has been working all alone and trying to make the 80 million people think by his brain. It is due he must be retired. Every Ethiopian wishes to forgive him if he correct himself but this man will never change. Enough is enough. Ethiopians have spilled their bloods because of him. And Ethiopian blood has been dishonoured by him. Ethiopians are dying because of him . I now believe Meles and Issayas will never change. They have different personality but they are the same kind. They are not better than each ther. They both autocratic.

5. After his removal, Ethiopia has to claim its rights wherever it must. Now Ethiopia is a country in prison because of one man. Ethiopians have no right to talk about their country interest. This is not acceptable.

6. Then if someone who is civil, humble, accessible, understanding, good listener takes over from him. I am hundred percent Ethiopia can go forward.

I do not want to talk about policy because before policy there must be someone who can listen to the 80 million people. I am saying Prime Minister Meles is a source of conflict and division not only between Ethiopians but even with Tigreans. He is a problem. It is pointless to talk about policies when the main problem is the man sitting on the top.

If there can be a good leader who can work with people, it is possible to lift Ethiopia from poverty even in 5 years. What counts is the trust and unity of the people among themselves. Ato Meles main focus is not working with people but his focus to make people work by his will not by thier will. Such a person is an arrogant and and an obstacle for development ecause he does not allow people to be generative except forcing his egos and ideologies.

I am fed up and I want to see him out of the palace.



--Gezaee

thank you aiga for this. EPRDF is doing a great job and when we want to criticize EPRDF we should criticize its policies, not its personals.
the comment by "Gezee" is a shabiya comment, not ethiopian. Please remove his comment since he didn't give any policy criticism.
this forum is a grown up, productive forum. not a forum for ethiopianreview shabiya duruyewoch.

thank you for removing him and keeping constructive discussion going


--DN

people are suffering by high cost of living. i would balance the market at least the majority of the people can afford to live.
--mack

tv programs and the stedeo not good, even pfdj have got better stedeo. pls ask them to make some change.

On my view, EPRDF is stand for eretrea interest. specialy meles zenawi. The way they think about Ethiopia intrest is EPRDF hopeless.
--zeray

1. EPRDF, especially TPLF has to completely overhaul itself. It needs to replace old guard with new visionary people. It is shameful that we see a lot of incompetent people in high ranking positions in Tigray. I was shocked to see some officials back in office during the last two elections. It is absolutely wrong to reward TPLF fighters with government office positions for their struggle. They have done an excellent job in removing the derg and we are all grateful for that but that doesn't necessarily merit an office position. Technical offices should be for people who have the knowledge and competence for the job. EPRDF appears to be making the same mistakes the derg committed, elevating someone incompetent to a position because he/she is a party member. I have heard stories such as an education bureau official is removed because he is not a party member. How many times do we have to make the same mistakes before we learn from them?
2. Despite much rhetoric on agriculture lead economy and rural development, I don't see much being done in terms of ensuring sustainable agriculture, commercial farming etc. I don't know how much subsidy goes into importing fertilizers. I mean I don't see much irrigation and value addition into our ag produces. Our farming is still primitive rain-fed, subsitence agriculture. We have to be thankful for the good rains during the past five years. I think the government needs to give the kind of attention and priority it has given the road and energy sectors by developing irrigated agriculture and providing incentives to commercial farming.
3. I am really confounded by the idea that the EFFORT group of companies are playing the role of a "market stabilizing force". How did Mesebo cement factory stabilize the price of cement a year or so ago when the price of cement jumped three fold? What role is Guna playing now when the prices of consumer goods are sky rocketing?
3. Corruption: This is raging unabetted everywhere, even in Tigray.

Dear Aiga,
I appreciate your initiative, but EPRDFites have never give their ear. Could you please let me know if EPRDF from its existence has changed its stand based on public opinion? Never. I asm sure, you and your forum do the same. EPRDF have been doing this stupid business through the so called forums for many years. I and many know the reason, just to soften the tension between the people and the one man EPRDF. However, I give a big credit to EPRDF on:
1. Education policy
2.Health

Rest nothing good!!!! I always wonder why people from Adwa (the likes of you)are blind on the weakness of EPRDF. May be you are short sighted by the power monopoly you have from kebele to federal offices????
--Concerned Tigrian

I would like it to be a party of competent and committed people.Like what they were during the armed struggle.Now except few of them most them are not only incompetent but are selfish and corrupt.
I would also want Melese to be serious on his anti-corruption campaign.He said it is the single most important threat to the party.But except his enemies like Siye he didnot accuse anyone who has said yes to him.Infact,he has already corrupted and destroyed the credibility of the struggle against corruption.
The same goes about EPRDF's understanding of democracy.It believes,it is the only party that is a democratic and one that cares about the people.All others are anti-people and anti-democratic.It even has gone down to extent of branding people like Gebru and Siye traitors,anti-Tigrean people very much like Shabia.Who would believe this kind of non sense.Gebru and others could wrong on what they did but certainly they are not anti-tigrean.About the shabia thing those who are now in power should better keep quiet b\se every body knows who wanted to stop the war short of total victory.
On the issue of Eritrea,EPRDf is correct in accepting the independence of Eritrea.But the way the political divorce was done is wrong.Again the way the war was managed and later about the presentation of the case in the commission was bad.I refer anybody interested to have a look at how ethiopia gave lands like Tserona to Eritrea.What makes one sad is that nobody took responsibility about that.We need an independent commission to investigate the whole process and the way forward like what we saw in Isreal -the winograd commission.
On the issue of land,although I dont believe that privatization will lead to development of agriculture,Peasants are being robbed by the state officials who allocate land for commission and bribes from the wealthy.So a mechanism should be put in place so that peasant and people in urban areas get adequate compensation.
On the issue of democratization,EPRDF should be serious interms of building institutions like electoral board,judiciary and others.why do they always pick very weak and incompetent people with no integity.
Issue of succession plan should be seriously considered.Imagine the sth happened to PM.What would happen.All the people aroud him are incompetent.We have seen them during the 2005 election. one cannot depend on them.
Finally,the media has lost credibility.That is why people depend on VOA,German radio,and worst of Eri-TV.Imagine Eri-TV.So efforts should be made to make the media one that entertains different views rather than empty propaganda.

For most people living in the diaspora, EPRDF is a party that is measured by the hate mongers of Ethiopian Review, Ethiomedia and the likes. For most of us in the country, with all its weakness, EPRDF is the only party that helped cement economic, social and political revival. Thanks to its concerted and devoted sacrifices, including life, that we are now where we are now from where we were. For most, where we were is forgotten. When I say, where we were, I don't mean only in terms of political space and democratization, but also in terms of social fabric and economic life. Under the previous regime, Ethiopia was grinding to death, it was obviously, on the brink to die unreverseble death! people were hopeless and repressed ruthlessly, dying from hunger, malnutrition, disease. Every thing was military. There was no civil life at all. No education or opportunity to it in the country. Even highschool and elementary education was accessible to few. People in the rural area had to live under stone age levels, no extention services, no health...ALL development indicators were at their world standard lowest! There was conflict here and there...crisis after crisis..

EPRDF started from here. Thanks to those tens of thousands pragmatic fighters who unreservedly sacrificed their lifes to change the situation. Thanks to the people who paid all the moral, social and economic sacrifices for one of worlds prolonged civil war. Thanks to them that all of us are now talking about economic policy varieties, social and political approach differences, all sorts of opposition and counter opposition...which was the whole dream of those brilliant minds who paid their life for this day to come. Many of the issues that we discuss now were the center of the gravity of discussions of those heros.

Having said this, I am not claiming that EPRDF is prefect in every thing. There are problems here and there that should be corrected, I believe:
1) EPRDF should improve its policy implementation and evaluation strategy. Top-down approach and bottom-up reporting is an outdated method. EPRDF lives in its reports. The reports from lower level hierarchy are with incentives to be biased. Those who report "better" performance even if only on paper are likely to promoted! So, every body in the hierarchy is with a good incentive to make up reports. Those at the top do not have access to evaluate these reports critically but to simply accept them. This happens routinely especially in the rural development/extension services programs...
Likewise, ploicies are designed at the top, and taken down to the people and implimentation is marred by the above incentive mechanism.
In fact, such a reporting mechanism is what misled EPRDF to believe that it had enough support from the people of ADDIS in the last election. No one was critical at the reports and no one tried to check them with facts!
In short EPRDF is wrong in beleiving its rank and file cadres. It should redesign its check and balance system.
2) Honestly, there was problem with handling the issue of Eritrea and its so called referendum. No, questions, Eritreans wanted and voted 99% for their independence. And no doubt Eritreans would have any ways voted 50+1 for it what ever approach EPRDF would have followed. But, a more sensible and fair approach than what EPRDF has followed would have helped to convince and get the support of moderate Ethiopians on the matter, which would have cemented public opinion on the matter. But, my view is that the so called TPLF-EPLF relationship was not founded on healthy grounds, which ultimatley lead the country to another war. This has to be corrected seriously. Eritrea is another country now. Yes they are our neighbours but just neighbours like the Sudan or Yemen. period. EPRDF's any sort of favaoritism towards Eritrea and the Eritreans cannot be justified in any way. So, EPRDF has to stop implicating any sort of favour towards Eritrea. That does not help for EPRDF itself.
--Zemen
<mailto:zemen@yahoo.com>

I trully appriciate for this opportunity ! Through the long history of our country - through the fight aganist colonializm and the preceding natur of centralistk ethiopian poltical cultur, the ethiopian society is modernized/transformed into a considerabel degree to a stat-nation-stat poltical entity of itsown and by which it produced a national character and thereby a nationalistic soical fabric that can´t be reduced to a simple collection of ethicn unions as Eprdf is telling us. There are millions of people who somehow originated from different ethnic groups but through but at this moment of histroy belive that they are ethiopians more and above than a member of a single ethnic group. The federal system doesn´t trully reflect the belive and the aspiration of these people and the policy of EPRDF alinate these group of peple while these people through thier nationalistic belive could have a lot to contribute to the development of the country as a whole. therefor EPRDF should transform itself to a higher level by more and more become national oriented political force or and at the same time give a space for those ethiopian nationalistic oriented poltical forces to engage themselves in the country democratical/poltical life and consider them as a matter of fact as partners rather than enemies of it. Time is aganist us and let us move forward by being couragous and avoid confrontations for the sake of our beloved country. Afterall no one can benfit from the weaker and divided ethiopia. Ethiopia is a civilization of its own and any unstable world situation is going to hunt us if we are not get ourselves together fast enough to catch up the frightnig strength of the western world and the by considering historical geo-poltical situation we live under. EPRDF has still the potential and the hsitorical burden to make the changes neccessary to correct and inforce the realisation of those confrontainal side issues which handeled correctlly and couraguslly will be the corner stones of any positive poltical/economical development of our country. let us all make piece with the ethiopian people and give a chance for the coming generation to trully know what ethiopia is all about with out cuting it completlly from its past which is being known as a candel of freedom and a unik African civilization, so unik even the west is not able to define it let alone appriciate it. Simply put, there is a need to change of attitude and a better reflection of the situation of the country but not simply close the eyes and assume everything is going well for the nature of reaction from the people at a time can be unpredectable and we all find ourselves in helpless situation and thereby surrender the fate of the country to the outside world. Let god give those inpower give a better wisdom and love for thier people they govern.
--a citizen.

EPRDF has to do a little reaserch and do the maths from the history of other incumbet parties from any other country. How long can it hold to power by coercion? 30 years ? 50 years?

The big names in the EPRDF party and their families and associates should realize no matter how hard they might try they cant stay on power indefinately. The day will come they cant profit any more from the system that has corrupted them.

So my advice for them is to be accountable and open to the public and give up power on voluntary basis through an honest democratic transformation.

Otherwise their fate will not be so much different from the hitory of Hailesellasie / derg / Mobuto etc...

I had a little adivce espcially to his excellency Mr. Meles in case if you review this page. Sir you have been on the chair for too long and you had done a remarakable job for good or bad. Congratulations! I hope that you will bow down and exit the office colorfully.

But however, I had a fear. We do expect your party will take all the seats in the next parliament after the next election since your openenets had no chance of comepting with you. I hope that you will not try to orchestrate a drama in the neaw pariliament by your cardes. A drama that will keep you in office after the next election:May such a drama can be an inanimous descion by the party cadres that says "the country cant afford to lose the wise ldearship skill of the PM and the incumbent party that has `won the election by landslide` has begged/ `orderd` you to stay on the course to continue your `unparraleled leadership skills`. Oh yes! since you are the people son you dont have any choice except to respect "the peoples demand"

Sir I hope that this kind of drama will not happen.

I hope that you will have the courage to show that you are a gentleman who sticks with his own promises. We all have heared you distinctly on several occasions you had had enough. That is right sir we had had also enough of you!.
--Balambaras

Come on guys, whether your throat is too narrow to swallow the facts or not, it is MENELIK who is entirely responsible for your country's failure to have access to sea!!!!!! EPRDF has done nothing wrong except ending 30 years of bloodshed with Eritrea. It is MENELIK who is accountable for the problem we have with Egypt and Sudan with respect to the Abay and its tributaries, EPRDF only tried to make effective use of the water resources including Abay disregarding Egypt's threat that totally terrorized Mengistu for 17 years,it is MENELIK and H/Silassie who are responsible for the ethnic and regionalism problems we have in our country, EPRDF has only tried to create and keep balance. If you want to blame somebody for Ethiopia's problems then blame anyone but Meles and EPRDF- because Meles and the EPRDF have never been part of this country's problem but solution!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
--ALULA

Come on guys, whether your throat is too narrow to swallow the facts or not, it is MENELIK who is entirely responsible for your country's failure to have access to sea!!!!!! EPRDF has done nothing wrong except ending 30 years of bloodshed with Eritrea. It is MENELIK who is accountable for the problem we have with Egypt and Sudan with respect to the Abay and its tributaries, EPRDF only tried to make effective use of the water resources including Abay disregarding Egypt's threat that totally terrorized Mengistu for 17 years,it is MENELIK and H/Silassie who are responsible for the ethnic and regionalism problems we have in our country, EPRDF has only tried to create and keep balance. If you want to blame somebody for Ethiopia's problems then blame anyone but Meles and EPRDF- because Meles and the EPRDF have never been part of this country's problem but solution!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
--ALULA

If I had a chance to change I would start to abide by the rule of law and govern the people instead of only my party EPRDF. PPM is preparing for hard life in the future particulary for the people of Tigray. Or future is going to be hard if EPRDF don´t stop the on going politic. I would change this and try to create united strong Ethiopia which can be the leading power house in Africa.
Now in this time, i only see that our life is waiting for more fear and unrest.
thanx.
--Feseha

Had it been EPRDF the party of the entire people of Ethiopia of defending the national interest of our country,it would have been the best political party I ever seen in my life. The problem is there is no EPRDF, it is TPLF and Meles Zenawi .. who are working hard against the will of the people, puting down Ethiopia and Ethiopians.
I don't get it why Meles and TPLFs hating being a proud Ethiopia ?
Avoid cultivating ethnic differences ... work hard on the unity with equality.Keep all Ethiopia's national interest.

Raza
--Raza
<mailto:tintag@gmail.com>

I think I would stop to live on hand out and try to be self releant once and for all. Then I would study what democracy is and I would accept the algerees agreement with Eritrea and live in harmony with them. Having studied democracy, I would accept the vote of the Ethiopian ppl. that´s it.
--Alemayehu

Dear sir,
i think Melese as a party leader has to be replaced by other EPRDF offical. we don't need another Putin in ethiopia. We need a continuing EPRDF with or without melese.


best regard

a. Transform itself into a national party
b. Give more political space for the political opposition
c. Respect and strengthen the independence of the justice system
d. Make professionalism and competence the hall mark of the public service
e. Encourage the development of a culture which value "Public Service" at every level and aspect of its structure
f. Provide a more transparent and democratic leadership. (political openness)
g. Provide the private sector with a clear and transparent rule-of-the-game and encourage its fast growth through sound policies and incentives
h. Privatize state monopolies with track record of bad management and corruption
i. Understand the limit of government
h. Earn the trust of the governed by aligning its vision with the National dream and aspiration of the public: A strong, confident economically strong National Democratic State where every citizen and ethnic group is respected and is free to exercise its god given right to live its life to the fullest.

The only thing avoide blood shed is to remove the one man.

As most of here mentioned, I recognize EPRDF's contribution to the development of the country. However, most Ethiopians see its top leaders as promoters of the Eritrean cause, which I think will stain their legacy. The PM and the top leaders need to be humble leaders who fight for Ethiopian interests - I know this is all wishful thinking on my part.

EPRDF WILL always be known as the organization that advocated, fought, lobbied, implemented and still believes in a policy that have made Ethiopia the most populous land locked country on Earth. EPRDF’s policy on Assab is what I call it “YebeG PolitcKa,” and it has the potential to backfire, if corrective actions are not taken.
--AbelXYZ
<mailto:shewitalem1@yahoo.com>

EPRDF WILL always be known as the organization that advocated, fought, lobbied, implemented and still believes in a policy that have made Ethiopia the most populous land locked country on Earth. EPRDF’s policy on Assab is what I call it “YebeG PolitcKa,” and it has the potential to backfire, if corrective actions are not taken. Aside from that I believe EPRDF has brought marked changes to the country’s development.
--AbelXYZ
<mailto:shewitalem1@yahoo.com>

Dear Aiga,
I am pleased to see you changing or taking steps to accomodate differnce. This move is one of the changes i always wished happenning in the media in Ethiopia. Let me clear my position, I am pro-EPRDF not by option but there is no alternative better than it at the moment. I will always remember the party for laying the foundation for democracy and making signifiacnt economic progress in the history of the country.
On the other hand, I want to make it clear, EPRDF is also a selective listening party, wanting to listen what it wants and not genuinly to know what the people of Ethiopia want. I may take me pages and pages writing the things I would wish EPRDF change to remain the true party of the people, but let me mention few of pressing importance:
1.Stance on Eritrea,
Admit it made a significant error of making unlawful and unwise divorce and admit publicly - it will render you honour.
2. Remove all the uncompitent people who are hosting office solely for their loyality. Replace them with "educated loyals" Ato Tsegay Berhe and his wife two of them.( my comments are not based on hate.. absolutely not!)
3. Be brave enough to open up the media,establish and independant body which control the quality. Risk to learn from making mistakes on this aspect. Start by reforming the dead, ETV and radio Ethiopia.

My hope is EPRDF will consider at least few of the comments mentioned here.

Once more, Aiga, thank you and do your best to continue making efforts to give people an out let for their say.
Start to critisize the party whenever necessary, and be good example!

--Zemenfes(UK)

I were an EPRDF member and have power to change policy, or in another word if I am in the place of Prime Minister Meles Zenawi I would have don the following:

1. I would stop being an obstacle for democracy. I would make sure to organize the Judiciary and the NEBE so that it can be independent and free from the control of one party. I would establish an independent board that oversee the oublic media and get rid of the information ministry. (the Prime minister can have its own press ministerof secretary).I would lift the ban on demonstrations and pubic rallies.I would stop blocking independent websites. I would stop jamming radio like the VOA and DW..I would allow opposution parties like the CUD to function without intimidations.

2. I would call Mr Issayas Afeowrki of Eritrea and start a dialog. The tension in the North doe snot help anyone. That area must be free of explosives and the people must start living without fear. I would send Ato Seyoum Mesfin to Asmara and find as permanent solution. In this context I would make sure to propose the option of re-uniting Eritrea if possible . If not then I would communicate with respect that Ethiopia shall not be without any sea outlet and it would be good for Eritrea to be in good terms with Ethiopia f they want to see prosperity.

3.I would make sure to start a dialog with the ONLF and OLF and open the door for them so that they can come in peace and be part of the peaceful political process. (peace with Eritrea would surely put a big burden on the OLF and ONLF to come to the table for their headquarters is there)

4. I would not have invaded Somalia. However since we are there now, I would make sure Somalia is table. I would put pressure on the TFG most of them former war lords who rampaged Somalis, to start an unconditional peace dialog with the former ICU leaders intended to have a power-sharing government. A stable and democratic SOmalia is good for Ethiopia.

4. I would continue the good relationship with the International Community. The fact the national debt is forgiven shows the strength of the diplomacy of the current regime. I would continue the diplomatic measures.

5. I would continue the focus that was given on development. Though some economic changes might be painful, I would make sure the any development woud also benefit the people. SO far only less than 1% are the beneficiaries. The majority are still living in powerty and misery. I would focus more on our poor population.


GK
--GK
<mailto:muziky68@yahoo.com>

I would like to applaud EPRDF first for the good things they have done so far and yet I have several issues that I would like to disagree.

1. The issue of Algeries Agreeement has to be null and void at all costs. I do not think I can forgive the PM primarily as well as EPRDF in how they handled this issue. The whole agreement is pro-Eritrean not of Ethiopian. I would like the party to listen to the public concern and grievances about this issue and give us updated information. I am sure that more than 80% of Ethiopian disagree with this nonsense agreement.

2. There is also an accusation about EPRDF giving some Ethiopian lands to Sudan. I do not care what Minilik did or not, we do not have to repeat the same mistake as Minilik. Every portion of land or any issue of soverinity should be discuss open to the puplic before handing our land to anyone or signing an Algiers Agreement. EPRDF should learn to talk to the public or any of the opposition group dispite the differences when it comes to Sovernity of the country.

3. The issue of corruption should be handled effectively. EPRDF should work even harder to get rid of the corrupiton issue at all costs from high level to low level ranks. It is my believe as well that the PM is advocate of anti-corruption and I will stand by him in this issue.

4. The inflation is way too far beyond for anyone to handle it. I just visited Ethiopia recently and I could not even afford to live in the country let alone the poor Ethiopian people who earn less $2 birr a day. Everything is way expensive and this will cause devastation to the country.

5. About the Federalization, I agree with EPRDF. I believe people are fooling themselves to accuse EPRDF for ethininc division. Ethiopian have been divided into ethinic groups way before EPRDF. The reason EPRDF is hated so much is not only because of its policy but also becuase it comprises an ethinic group called Tigray. Please people stop being belind about this issue.
The only thing I suggest to EPRDF is that keep the issue nation &nationalities alive but try to educated the public about its positive aspect. Every Ethiopian is to blame over ethinic separation issues and not party should be responsible for an old age issue.

Peace

Meles and EPRDF are servants of Eritrean regime and not Ethiopia as their name bears....as usual Meles is bothered about Eritreans and he is busily working day and night about providing Eritrean refugees with higher level of education and living standard while Ethiopian people are under poverty.It look like he is thinking about the wealthy countries when it comes to Eritrean refugess.May be he will put enroll them in to his civil service college.I know Meles will die for Eritrean sake...
We don't know about the future but at the moment Eritreans are #1 enemies of Ethiopia and its people....Meles must be referring the holy bible which says love your enemy.
Meles is our enemy as he is for our enemies.

Good question. I will abolish TPLF`s domination in EPRDF and create meaningfully representative coalition party or organization. I will work for equitable appropriation of resources. I will work towards creating a truely independent judiciary. I will make sure that people`s voices are genuenly respected. I will focuss on cohesion of regions while still maintaining their individual identity. I will work towards creating a system that depends on competence than father or mother names. I will work towards making Amharic and afan oromo our official languages. I will propose for a given prime minster to work for not more than two four year terms, no matter what. I will propose for creation of a good incentive package for the retiring prime minster and his/her family...as a token of thank you for serving our country. I will work for changing the immage our country has in the international arena. I will establish a task force of intelectuals to identify possible areas of excelence that our country can be identified with-(eg. India is known for its software engineers in particular and human capital in general; asians in general have managed to create the mentality that they have "good work ethic" thus atracting multinatioonals in to their countries---can we be, say an organic agriculture country...?). Most importantly I will create the mentality that the government is servant of the people-I will create the mentality that government employees are employees of the people; they are hired by the tax payers. I will try to promote "I am the tax payer" mentality in the public.
--guta
<mailto:justo_talk@yahoo.com>

First of all, I would like to appreciate this web site for the opportunity to speak my mind.
EPRDF has achieved so much in many fronts too many to list here. However, EPRDF has also committed a huge blunder on the issue of Ethiopia’s access to the sea like no other party or government of Ethiopia or else where.
The mistake is just huge. As if that is not enough, so many of EPRDF leaders are posturing as leaders of Eretria more than even Eritrean leaders when it comes on the issue of Ethiopia and Eritrea. Enough to mention what sebaht nega said on his recent interview. EPRDF at times looks like political wing of or SHABIA. It truly is unfortunate mistake of a party which has accomplished so much in other areas. It seems to me that a huge majority of EPRDF people are either incompetent to challenge the ridership on matters pertaining internal and external political issues or they are just following the leadership even though they know very well the party is heading in the wrong direction fearing retribution.
What is really amazing is the fact that the party has very few individuals and the same people in leadership position for more than 30 years. This demonstrates how shorthanded the party is in terms of qualified people who can take over the leadership position any time soon.
Meles is brilliant leader for the country. However, he is hurting the party by not giving new breed politicians a chance to show themselves if at all the party has those kinds of people. Therefore, unless meles doesn't care about the political future of his party after he leaves power, he should work hard to find those potential leaders and groom them for future possibilities.
My other concern is the twisted understanding of federalism in Ethiopia. Every Ethiopian has to be protected by the constitution to work and live any where in Ethiopian soil regardless of his ethnicity or other qualifiers’. It is mind boggling to see how some if not most regional leaders stomp the right of citizens to live and work if they don't belong to their ethnic group. Therefore, EPRDF should ensure the fact that Ethiopians have equal right every where in Ethiopia and that right should be well protected by the constitution.
Corruption has become a routine practice in Ethiopia. In today's Ethiopia, you are required to put thousands upfront if you want to get services. EPRDF has to revolutionize the way the countries business is being run. We have to create a system where service seekers and givers will never meet in person that would abolish the possibility of corruption. The service seekers should know or handed a flyer where services, complaint hotlines and approximate waiting period are depicted.
EPRDF should make sure citizens are protected from voulchers or give citizens the possibility to express their grievances and abuse through hotline or websites where citizens can report.
The other crucial issues are the way taxation is being handled by the custom office. It is mind boggling to hear ten people have paid ten different custom fees for the same and exact item they import which is another example that EPRDF is failing the business people by exposing them to voulchers. Please prepare manual where business people or any body who is interested can refer and know the approximate custom fee before even importing the item.

Once again I thank you for the opportunity to express my mind.

--Haile

Dear DN,

you said I am Shabia. Good boy, believe me I love shabia. Reason they are my brothers. The same applies for Meles. I love him as my brother. However that does not mean I have to follow him blindly.

So what I have stated on my previous comment was not hate. I do not actually hate anyone. Even my enemies. I do not believe hate solves anything at all.

Nonetheless, it is good to be honest and truthful. So the main reason I am saying Meles must retire is not because I hate him. It is because he is divisive and a cause of conflict among people.

People may think I wanted Meles to attack Eritrea or open war. But I do not believe in that. What I believe in is fairness to all.

Thus far Ato Meles has been unfair to Ethiopia. The things he has done to Ethiopia are an open secret. He believes Ethiopia must be landlocked. This is an insanity. A healthy person would not believe in that. Leave alone Ethiopian, even foreigners sympathize with Ethiopia being landlocked. The only person who enjoy landlocking Ethiopia is Meles. Why he loves such a stupid belief I have no clue. He must have been indoctrinated by Issayas at early stage and could not get it out.

The landlocking of Ethiopia does not help Ethiopia and does not help Eritrea. As we can see, the ports are now ghosts. Neither Eritreans nor Ethiopians are using them. This is unfair. Why? The other thing is Meles has his own history of Ethiopia and believe Ethiopia has no claim and had no history of owning the red sea coast. This is Meles perverted beliefs. We all know Ethiopia owned the whole Red sea including the somalian coast long ago and Massawa and assab until my own generation. But Meles wanted to make his own new history of Ethiopia. I do not agree with that. I said even foreigners feel pity of Ethiopia being landlocked with 80 million people.

I met recently a european visitor who came from addis? He told me he could not drive on the high ways in Ethiopia. I did ask him why? he told me the country is landlocked and has no train transportation system. So all the trucks which the west manufacture are on the Ethiopian tarmac. The cart, the taxi, the lorries which transport the freight from Sudan, Djibouti are all on the road. He asked me why Ethiopians decided to be landlocked? he asked me why they decided to give all the coast to Eritrea? I told him the man who leads Ethiopia beliefs Ethiopia must be landlocked. He told me it is important the country own an outlet. He told how they are blessed for having many coastlines\ unlike Ethiopians being surrounded by coastal lines.

So my grievances on Meles is based on reasons than on hate. I do not hate him at all. I do not hate anyone. But I know and have come across many Ethiopians who hate Meles.

Besides, I have to be again honest. Meles never changed all his beliefs. He did not change anything thus far. What he beliefs in he beliefs in. So the country is ruled by his beliefs not by the beliefs of Ethiopians. Ethiopians we have no voice. For me talking about Policy is pointless when there is no anyone who take them.

DN, you gave instruction to Aiga to remove my comments. That is primitive and rustic my boy. It appears you wanted me to whisle with you. You did not like my comments and you wanted to remove them. That is indicates you have still along way to go to learn to respect the opinion of others. I have a right to withhold my opinion about Policy. I believe one cannot go to play a soccer if there is no soccer field. To talk about policy there must be someone who can listen and who take those policy. You can talk 100 times but they will change anything. Reason? Meles never take other Ethiopian ideas. If that was not the reason TPLF members would not have dismembered themselves from the party which they worked for and sacrificed their prime lives.

In further to this, check out the central committe of TPLF? they are Tegadelitis.There is no any civilian. Why? I do not know,

--Gezaee

Gezaee, please remain engaged in the topic. If and when we see a need to remove comments we will do on our own. Do not misuse your rights.Thanks, Admin

Gezaee,..no need to add on your comments!
only applause!

Thanks for the chance.

1- Ethnic policy they need to work on it
2- Give back Gondar's and Wollo's land which is taken (that is ticking bomb)(eg. wolkait, humera)
3 - support for more constructions for Tigrai (the hard working people of Tigrai deserve more)but needs to be fair on the other part of the country both development and power sharing
4 - improve the democratic institution of the country this is the main one.

Thanks
--Hagos
<mailto:hagos_jh@hotmail.com>

EPRDF (specifically TPLF) has turned a new page in the history of Ethiopia. We are thankful for what has been done till now. EPRDF has changed the infrastructure of the country. That means the ground is already leveled. Ready for every thing. EPRDF has done a lot in road construction, rural electrification, education, health, agriculture etc. These are the basics for development. The problem is, however, the impact of these all willl not be noticed until industries flourish based on the infrastructure. EPRDF is doing little (or nothing) in publicizing what has been done. EPRDF has to work on this. Long live EPRDF. Lets not forget our Martyres.
As to the leadership, we have a wonderful PM. But I doubt if the people around him are working to his level. I am always happy with what he is coming up. But am not happy with the leadership in Tigray. Meles has to do something. Otherwise, EPRDF (particularly TPLF) will be losing its ground in Tigray. Which could be devastating.
--Gidus

I mean not only the Tegadltis, but also including their children and family must be held with great honor and respect. There is error in my writing.
--Gezae

I commend its
1. Foreign policy,
2. Economic policy, with reservation

I would change and/or undo:

1. Its ethnic federalism,
2. Its stand on Assab and Eritrea,
3. Its stereotype to Amharas and Oromos
4. Its policy favoring Tigreans as its Economic policy to put them ahead of all other ethnics so that it won't back fire in the future.

--Tesfai Mircha

it is clear that ethiopia has stepped forward in economical developement. on this sector the EPRDF is doing good with its responsibilitie. we have to be clear that tens of thousends of ethiopia were sucrified for the betterment of their country and people not for the sake of government change.
saying this, EPRDF has killed the country and lose suport from many ethiopians due to the following

1) the educational policy of EPRDF is very poor. look to what is happening at the elementery and high school level. on the regard i can say that EPRDF has killed generation. still EPRDF has to learn to change it. other wise it is only a matter of time to see this solved as a result of people's struggle.

2) i support the independence of eritrea b/c we do need to shed blood for long period of time. but why meles his collegues always go in favour of eritrea all the times is not clear to me. he has to know that he the leader of ethiopia not eritrea. i am always offended by his stand on eritrea.
3) although the ethinic based federalism in ethiopia is a right desecion consedering the fact on the ground it should n't be exaggerated. and every thing has to come from the people. they should n't be told how they have to act.

4)aseb's should not be closed. as long as thier strategy is peace full any group or groups with this idea has to get chance to try its best.

5) the leadership of EPRDF has to be open to any competent citizen ship irrespective of his ethinicity, social back ground and poletical idealogy including oppenents.
--solomon

it is clear that ethiopia has stepped forward in economical developement. on this sector the EPRDF is doing good with its responsibilities. more over we have to be clear that tens of thousends of ethiopians were sucrified for the betterment of their country and people not for the sake of government change.
saying this, EPRDF has killed the country and lose suport from many ethiopians due to the following

1) the educational policy of EPRDF is very poor. look to what is happening at the elementery and high school level. on this regard i can say that EPRDF has killed generations. still EPRDF has to learn to change it. other wise it is only a matter of time to see this solved as a result of people's struggle.

2) i support the independence of eritrea b/c we do not need to shed blood for long period of time. but why meles and his collegues always go in favour of eritrea all the times is not clear to me. he has to know that he is the leader of ethiopia not eritrea. i am always offended by his stand on eritrea.
3) although the ethinic based federalism in ethiopia is a right decision consedering the fact on the ground it should n't be exaggerated. and every thing has to come from the people. they should n't be told how they have to act.

4)aseb's case should not be closed. as long as thier strategy is peace full any group or groups with this idea has to get chance to try their best.

5) the leadership of EPRDF has to be open to any competent citizen irrespective of his ethinicity, social back ground and poletical idealogy including oppenents.
--solomon

Thanks for initiating the discussion on this important issue. first i would like to acknowlege the good and bad changes EPRDF brought to ethiopia. Overal, it played pivotal role in tranforming the ethiopian society(economic, culture,education and democracy) for good. but if EPRDF is to remain as the driving force of ethiopian politics, then it needs real change from within. first it need to be inclusive to individuals with different opinion. it so discourging to see all EPRDF members from top down speak the same and think the same. this unhealthy to the party and is discouraging many able individauls from participating in fullfilling EPRDF's goals. my second point is TPLF's policy towards Tigray. Tigray being at the center of all this transformation needs more freedom and democracy. currently, TPLF has the monoply on the economic and poltical life of the people of Tigray. there seems a fear towards the people. I think this is not sustainable and TPLF should let the people of Tigray run their own businees and poltical afairs by themselves for themselves as is the case in ADDIS


--yohannes

The federal structure along ethnic lines is a ticking bomb hovering over Ethiopia and needs to be restructured in such a way that the rights of groups are assured as well as the feeling of otherness by anyone anywhere is discouraged. EPRDF ahould not be numbed by other successes not what bodes in the future. Case histories like that of Tito's Yugoslavia and recently of Kenya should be studied in earnest. EPRDF is going to be judged not only by what it is doing now but also by what it leaves behind.

There are two important things as a priority EPRDF must do to bring positive changes in Ethiopia. The one and the most important one is to replenish it self with patriotic, educated, development oriented, responsible, fair minded and uncorrupted Ethiopians. EPRDF must go out of its way and recruits, and invites Ethiopians from all over the world that are ready to rebuild their country and bring peace and prosperity. EPRDF must facilitate and open its door very wide and allow Ethiopians from all walks of life to birth fresh air and propel it to the next millennium as the finest party. There are many great Ethiopians all over the world ready and willing to help their country to become the best one. EPRDF needs to tap to that resources and bring huge transformations within the party and the country.

The second step is to help build loyal opposition parties and civic organizations. It is important that EPRDF encourage, support and protect genuine and peaceful political parties to grow and be part of nation building and democratic development. The emergence of productive, peaceful, democratic, patriotic and developmentally oriented opposition parties supremely benefits not only the ruling party but the whole nation. It guarantees political stability, enhance trust among political parties and set the foundations for the peaceful transfer of power from one to the other party. Therefore, EPRDF must do its best and display leadership to foster meaningful relationships with genuine and democratic opposition parties.

Abdel

I am an EPRDF supporter and I will continue to be one. However, I am bothered by its policy (for a lack of a better word) of unwillingness to return individual properties that were “nationalized” by Dergue while at the same time, trying to compensate others thru a back door deals. I am talking about the government’s offer to pay compensation to Nestlé corporation, and a certain Eritrean family who’s liquor factory was taken by Dergue. I hate to believe that EPRDF responds better/faster for those who make nose from outside.

Recently, there is a talk about a new directive to be passed by the Ethiopian Parliament limiting the request time to reclaim properties “unlawfully” taken by Dergue. Which is good since this case should not drag forever. But some were in the proposed directive it states “properties taken with out proclamation”? Are they going to follow the same stand as Dergue : “Owning more than one house is a crime” ? I hope not.

I wonder what is stopping EPRDF from returning properties to the rightful owners. Is it the socialist in EPRDF? , is it EPRDF’s anti rent-seeking mind-set? or is it just trying to protect residencies of EPRDF officials since most of them live in a “nationalized” housings?

I am not by any means opposing these officials residing in these houses for a time being since all were occupied by Dergue officials when EPRDF controlled the country, but I will support ideas such as allocating a free plot of land and a no-interest house loans to these officials as a token of appreciation for their past and present sacrifice for our country. I hope some one will comment on this.

Thanks

Daniel

There are two important things as a priority EPRDF must do to bring positive changes in Ethiopia. The one and the most important one is to replenish it self with patriotic, educated, development oriented, responsible, fair minded and uncorrupted Ethiopians. EPRDF must go out of its way and recruits, and invites Ethiopians from all over the world that are ready to rebuild their country and bring peace and prosperity. EPRDF must facilitate and open its door very wide and allow Ethiopians from all walks of life to birth fresh air and propel it to the next millennium as the finest party. There are many great Ethiopians all over the world ready and willing to help their country to become the best one. EPRDF needs to tap to that resources and bring huge transformations within the party and the country.

The second step is to help build loyal opposition parties and civic organizations. It is important that EPRDF encourage, support and protect genuine and peaceful political parties to grow and be part of nation building and democratic development. The emergence of productive, peaceful, democratic, patriotic and developmentally oriented opposition parties supremely benefits not only the ruling party but the whole nation. It guarantees political stability, enhance trust among political parties and set the foundations for the peaceful transfer of power from one to the other party. Therefore, EPRDF must do its best and display leadership to foster meaningful relationships with genuine and democratic opposition parties.

Abdel

Back again to share few oppinions at aiga. Admit it or not, EPRDF has laid strong foundations conducive for development. One has to see the marked improvements in the areas of industry, eduation, energy, transportation, and of cource democracy. Even though threre are short comings, achiving those in a diverse, poor country such us Ethiopia starting from almost zero is a significant achievement. Critiques of the government should admit those gains and should give long due appreciation to the ruling party.
Having said that, I should raise an enormously important national interest: the issue of Assab. I donot oppose the cessasion of Ertra; but, as Ethiopian citizen, I would rather let it happen in ways that won’t compromise the long term interst of my country and its 80 plus milion citizens. Although the time of the transition was chaotic and the influence of EPLF was strong, the rulling party behaved in this regard as Eritrean stogiey instade of from Ethiopian long term interest. The Prime Minster’s repeated statement affirming Ethiopia’s claim on Assab and by scholding those who tried/ try to raise the issue. A government should listen to the very people’s interst and design strategies to achieve it. Iti s not what is good for the other party but what is attainable and what are needed to secure 80 miliion people in a volatile region. In my opinion, EPRDF’s major mistake is its repeated failure to heed and align it self to the Ethiopian people’s interest. No government is imune of making mistake and the government should start understanding the needs of the people on this regard and take the needed action. When started taking actions in this regard, EPRDF will see a huge surge of popular support, as doing that is the interest of all Ethiopians.
Thank you

I,as an Ethiopian have much appreciation towards EPRDF.they are doing their best.they have come long way in every aspects.the complains that we are reading above is simple honest to understand,which is from individuals who never did & will never do better than EPRDF,because we never seen them doing anything for Ethiopia & Ethiopians.there are some indiviaduals in the diaspora who put the Ethiopian community at odds to exploit for their own benefits,therefore,how do one think these kind of individuals will do better? if there were a better replacement of EPRDF,what did it do? to be called better.where it was? when the Ethiopian people really needed a help.what Ethiopia & Ethiopians need is simple,a political process that works togehter with the encumbent gov't while fixing & debatting the flaws of our politics.a change must come in a process that can respect the present gov't in order to lay ground for the next one.we never know if there is anybody better so far.I will say EPRDF is doing okay in my opinion.if there is any one who can tell me there is a better one,I'm asking who? what did it do? when?. the EPRDF have come long way from the bottom,lived like the people,helped & worked with the poeple. if one asked our country needs a better political economy,then definitely yes!but it shouldn't come by degrading the Tigrai people,who sacrificed so much in the Ethiopian history & still paying too much. the most atrosious act of EPRDF is the Eritrean stance & it is about the Ethiopian natural & hitorical out of the red see & is the the most disturbing situstion for the Ethiopian people in general.eventhough it is right to support the independent of Eritrea,it had become a reality that the message Eritrea have from its colonial master is until Ethiopia is disintegrated & Eritrea will never be successful in anyway.the EPRDF must change their stand on Eritrea. they have to start by declaring the Algiers agreement null & void ,& need to declare that the Assab torritory of Afar must be reintegrated with its motherland.keeping in support of Eritrea with all its filth will amount to be part of the colonial agenda for Ethiopia. EPRDF will be discredited in our history if they don't change their stance on Eritrea immediately. nonetheless,EPRDF is doing more than better in its performance. For indivuduals who complains that the EPRDF is not doing okay,our people are living on $2.00 a day & bla bla...there used to be millions of Ethiopian who doesn't have a penny for the day & stil there are millions eventhough their numbers are decreasing. this time shouldn't be a time of arguement about democracy,it should be a time of working together to enable for millions of Ethiopian to sleep with full belly.this is an era where Ethiopians must make history like their ancestors.the treat on our country is part of for what our ancestor fought courageously & we shouldn't falter with out knowing what to do. one who doesn't have anything to eat today never understand the bragging of democracy.the citizens of Ethiopia who are begging on the streets of Ethiopia will never understand these westernized Ethiopians with a fancy suites & shoes.these farmers who work hard bare foot for Ethiopians to make it happen through out the year are not in consideration of our politics. the farmers of Ethiopia must be paid back to understand the fancy politics of western democracy.one Engineer or professor must live with our farmers for months to research for the betterment of our people. In my conclusion,EPRDF must be supported in order to bring a better political economy in our country.thank you aiga for promotting a constructive arguement & for giving us the opportunity to be part of you & you are the best web sight of our time. sincerely yours.

Personally, I lost interest in EPRDF not because of its Tigrai origin but because of its short-sightedness and lies.

1. Don’t try to convince the world that fundraising skills from international donors and implementing developmental projects are evidence of good governance. This can be done by strong and accountable national nonprofit organizations. EPRDF needs to prove to Ethiopia that the law is above high government officials. Don’t transgress the law when it comes to your interest such as sending Ato Seeye back to jail after the law found him not guilty and, fail to give sound explanations and admittance of mistakes.
2. Don’t single out whom you consider enemies and destroy their reputations. It makes others scared to get near you when you burn those around you. That is one of the evidences that high government officials can do what they desire. To a certain degree, I understand why some opposition groups think of you as a 'mafia' type group. Mafia groups ruled America indirectly at a certain era. But, it was short-lived and they left bitter taste. Don't leave that for future generations.
3. Don’t compete with opposition groups by putting them down but rather by expounding your past success and your future plans. Remember you are viewed as liars and character assassins by many academicians. Not only Ethiopian academicians but the international community. Since what you say doesn’t have the value it had before, you’re only proving their claims and predictions when you defame competitors.
4. Be truthful:
a) Ato Seyoum’s big lie about Badime’s fate was a major blow to EPRDF in addition to the fact that Ato Seyoum lost the respect of many of the Ethiopian people—supporters and opposition groups. Personally, I lost interest in what he has to say in any subject as a result of that incidence.
b) Ato Seyoum accusing Ato Seeye with fabricated stories on the Weyane radio station which is heard only in Tigrinja, was another blow. A man of his stature—Minister of Foreign Affairs—shouldn’t have been used to bad mouth anyone. How important was it to use a representative of a country for family feud? Tigrai is not a foreign land why the Minister of Foreign Affairs? It is a disgrace to the government not to mention that it confirms Ato Seyoum’s low moral values--readiness to discredit his childhood buddy with lies to stay in power. Power and liquor are man’s enemies. I will not be surprised if the result was self-defeating to Ato Seyoum. The injustice to Ato Seeye may have caused many to be in his team. Time will show: And that is, if you guys don’t get him assassinated.
EPRDF has greatly benefited from the fact that, currently, there are no deserving opposition groups. I will not be surprised if you get reelected legally and truthfully. That does not mean EPRDF is good, only better organized than others. Poverty and lack of rule of law drove millions out of the country. You are taking advantage of ‘brain-drain’ Ethiopia, rightly so because you stayed and fought at the expense of your lives. I give you credit for that and for the peace you have maintained in light of what took place in Rwanda and Kenya. Nevertheless, there is room for change for the better. Make the best of the time that you have left. I will be happy for you, not for Ethiopia, if you get reelected because it will give you time to correct past mistakes.

Remedy for past failures:

• Share power with opposition groups willfully after you are legally reelected. The brain-drain and the disorganized conditions may not last long. Don’t wait for riots and negative forces.
• Provide restitution where it is appropriate. You know whom you’ve wronged.
• Set Tigrai free from the bondage of TPLF and prove it to the world that you did. Leave the “One Tigrai” philosophy to Isayas Afe Worke. Open your eyes to your own mistakes and correct them when there is time.
• Don’t leave Tigrai in the state you brought it to, target of hate. Take responsibilities and c

Continued from the previous comment--

• Regain the people’s trust. Without some amount of trust, there is no respect. If EPRDF wants to be trusted again, it needs to acknowledge that it has changed rather than it didn’t make mistakes. In addition, don’t just generally say, “We’ve made mistakes in the past.” True repentance specifies past mistakes. Say it loud and clear, “We made a mistake by doing this and that.” A good example is—“We made a mistake by not telling the truth during the Badime issue.” Communicate to Ethiopia that you admit you knew it was not true and assure people it won’t happen again. Be vulnerable to a certain degree. At times, it is through losing that you win. It is not always with guns and ammunitions.

Finally, make an impressive exit like your entrance. Bring some value to the tens of thousands who sacrificed their lives to bring you to power.

I say EPRDF has been good to the country Ethiopia.
--optional

dear Aiga

thank you opening this forum, my suggestion about EPRDF ,there is no party this time in Ethiopia than EPRDF. well, about this party there are many positive points first of peace in the country people are in dying by famine or sickness in peace thise 18 years I can say this is already great achievement in Ethiopian PEACE! recently a hot issue is a booming economy of the country I don't give any suggestion about because I don't understand it, but if there is anything I would have encouraged them to keep up, otherwise please work hard for peace and right of individuals, there are abuse of human right , you know that some women and men paid blood for this, the blood of martyrs should forget! on their bones and blood the tree of peace must be planted and the people of Ethiopia has to get chance to get relaxed on the tree of peace!
---

Many feedback have been aired. EPRDF never lack feedbacks. Everything that needs to be told have been said on many occasions and by many well wishers. What we lack most is EPRDF that litsnes and accomadates the views of others. Real leadership is not a government which decides what it thinks is best for the governed. A real one is the one that litsnes. A nation is not a private entity. Country is a public property. Voices of the people must be heard by the ruling party. I know it all attitude must not be practiced by EPRDF at all time. Country belongs to every citizen. One big mistake practiced by the ruling party is that it assumes and acts as if the country is its own property. Party is a gathering of people with the save view and interest. Ethiopia is more than that. Ethiopia is a melting pot in everything. Ethiopia and Ethiopians have to have a say in the way they are governed. They have to be heard regardless of thier affiliation to anything and any body. I know there are many Ethiopians that apprceate EPRDF for many reasons. But even them wonder why they are not allowed to have a say and heard when need be. They want to be more than yes men. They like to contribute all they can. They want to yes when appropriate and no when they know it is not right. Is not these type of people that the country needs most? Not the ones that they have no clue, yes to everything EPRDF say regardless to its out put. PMZ is a samrt and an inteligent person. But that does not mean that he is always correct. The issue of Eritrea and the cost to Ethiopia is one good example to name. It is not only with monetary but the lost of thousands of innocent life the has paid is a result of a blunder the PMZ has commited. Had he litsned and accomadated various views and ideas of other concerned bodies and individuals, he would not have been the only responsible person of the mess. Too much arrogance and I know it all attitude is washing away all the positive things the ruling party has done for the country. Therefore, EPRDF should learn how to listen the heart beat of the governed ones. People must have a say on how they want thier country governed. If not, it is leading to dictatorship. And we all know the final moments of dictators. I hope it is not too late for EPRDF to correct on its "I know it All attitude." Party is private, country belongs to all. A nation belongs to all members of the country. We all know that Addis people did not vote for KINIGIT because they like that party. It was a protest against EPRDF. Deep in thier heart hwever, the people of Addis Abeba appreciate many things about the then leadership of Arkebe Equbay as a mayor. How ever, the people are fed up because, the party selects and appoints people not on thier merit but party affiliation only. EPRDF does not allow people to have a say in thier country's affair. MY way or no way attitude must not be practiced by the party. If no attitude change is changed , I am afraid that all the good stuff accomplished by the rulling is going to come down as a card of houses. I do not want to happen that but I wish EPRDF learns how to listen and open its door to all who can contribute to thier country, especially the intelectual ones. Another point to make is that its public relation is the worst of all. There is so much great things done under the leadership of EPRDF. But, since its party is surrounded by very incomptent ones, they can not even communicate very well. Read Walta news and articles and you will know what I mean. Even its "members" and "supporters" in the diaspora are worst than Walta. I always wonder why EPRDF does not appeal to the abble ones. One reason can be, it assumes the "I know it all" attitude. In return, what it got is a bunch of yes men with no pen to write and no mouth to talk nice with. A good friend is a friend that wishes you the best, tell you the truth, and not the one that applauds to everything regardless of the consequence.
--tamrat

WHAT I KNOW ABOUT EPRDF IS SHAM,ARROGANT,SELFISH,KILLERS,HATRED. THE WORST I HATED ABOUT THE PARTY RULE IS ZEREGNENET....KOSHASHA TARIQ
--EWENETU
<mailto:BETHY@YAHOO.COM>

The Ethnic federalism policy EPRDF took will one day cause ethnic strife amongst the major Ethnic groups. EPRDF's core, TPLF is from Tigrayan origin. I beleive the Ethnic division created by the ruling party one day will burn it to ashes since ethnically organized parties or fronts proved effective than multi-national parties. who knows, what we see in Oromia and Ogaden will one day go up northern territories neighbouring Tigray creating the most distabilizing and disastrous bloodshed. I say these based on the feeling and anymosity created by the careless EPRDF policy
--Demeqe tulu

Tamrat, well said. That is what we are saying all. But the I know it all attitude is destroying the party itself. There is a saying in Tigringea, Zeysmeakaya betkristians mewdie etan, a church that does not hear the pray of a prayer finishes the frankincense of the prayer.

--Gezaee

Thank you Aiga for oppennig this forum . I don't think EPRDF can change its behaviour. But this forum can at least help readers air out their views. I don't think EPRDF has a problem of listening the public discontents, also. The problem lies EPRDF NEVER,NEVER,NEVER correct its mistakes as a result of public openion or feedback.Because of the EPRDF rigid stand for they are knowen in resuming what they believe despite the public resistances,I can say EPRDF is unwilling to oppen its doors and windows for change.EPRDF has missed dozens of opportunities of changes.If I have to change EPRDF, I would do the follwing things. Before I blame EPRDF I will commend for what EPRDF has achieved in areas of school/not to mention the quality/ ,roads,clincs,telephone,unversities.
To do lists:
1/Avoid possession of power on the bases of family lines.At this time the central core of EPRDF,TPLF is a political dynasty of a few.Meles-Azeb,Sibhat Nega-Kidusan- Nega-Haleka Tsegay,Abay Woldu-Tirfu whom all of them are the central committee of TPLF etc.A lot of cousins limited area are on the circle.By the way, I am not saying these tendencies happend just now, I am saying it is worsening since the TPLF split.I believe this trend is challang the unity of Tigrians.
2/Let Sibhat Nega be retired. I believe Sibhat has contributed a lot during the armed struggle.However,after the dowen fall of the Derg regim, he has damaged the unity of the people.I have witnessed his nepotist hiring of emplyees in REST,EFORT and other TPLF enterprises.Since then I have lost confidence on him.Let alone all Ethipians he can not treat all Tigrays at same level.
3/Scrach Article 39 out of the constitution.For that matter I was a proponent of the article.However it has proven itself that the article is the source of hatered and disintegration.I don't thing we have to wait until this country is fragmented and wake up and say HEY,HEY.Let all nationalities exercise all rights except cecession.It is easier to avoid a dictator from power than to unit a disintegrated country.As Regions are ceced the Ethiopian enemies are closer that much.You know how closer Egypt is rihgt now.It is closer to SENAFE,Asab etc.
4/Let us have a national language.Theoretically Amharic is the national language of Ethiopia but practically I,Tigrigna speaker ,and the Oromiya public offices can't comunucate through Amharic.I have to ask to somebody to write me an application in Qufe/Oromigna/.We are living in the same counrty but we don't have a common medium.
5/Let 's thing first the big picture and then the small. Instead of Tigaway Ethiopiawi I am Ethiopiawi Tigrawai.This is not the issue of the analogy of who comes first.The Hen or the Egg. In essence they are totally differnt.
Thank you again
Desta

Dear Aiga,

I have listened to all the clips you posted about Woyanes struggle. But do you think you yourself respect all that? If you were, you would not have allowed our people divide like the way they are divided now. So there is no point talking about nebereya nebere if you and I have destroyed that Kalkidan. We are so selfish after the sacrifice of peoples lives. It is disgraceful to break all the promise.

Let me tell you a story I was told by my Amhara friend.

He said he was in Wollo when TPLF was advanciing via woldia in Wollo. He told me when Woyane took control woldia the local people reacted badly. They attacked TPLF. But the TPLF were disciplined not to react to the local people. They gave them their faces. The farmers killed the Tegadeltis and TPLF never reacted to that killing by the locals. Then the locals then felt bad what they did was wrong. They asked apology and did join TPLF and they became the proponent of TPLF at the expense of the lives of the Tegadeltis. So Woyanes knew how to win the heart and minds of ordinary people long ago even by giving their own precious lives. My friend himself after that he was in love with Woyane after that scenario. he said who would give his life like that? but he said Woyanes were honest and clean people but after they took over the country they lost all the wisdom and stopped to work with people. Then he said corruption crept in. Eritreans and Tigreans started mistreating other Ethiopians. He said the war between Eritrean and Tigreans was very good. He said because Ethiopians were treated as second citizen in thier own coutry by Tigreans and Eritreans right in addis ababa.
Now all that noble wisdom is lost by the greed of few top brass cliques. Do you think Meles remembers any of those? I do not think so. It is sad when the promise of justice and freedom is being gambled at those precious lives like that of Almaz. It is good Almaz never come back and see that her blood was gambled for. Her precious life forgotten by greed nd arrogance, but what we can we do.

My freind. Tell your friend from Wollo that he is lying. People in addis ababa never accepted people from Tigray to be member of the government. Did you know how many Tegadelity died in Addis? Please man, do not let me start. Since the topic discussed here is something else, I will just ignore your comments in general. Just stay focuse to what is stated. Please, stop talking nonsense about what people tell and write about it.

I know that but we have to admit the existing policy at home has given opportunities to those people and we must not blame those who hate people for no good reason. If there was good policy it was easier to prove them wrong. Anyway think your for being civil.
--Gezaee

I SUPPORT EPRDF IN ALMOST IN EVERY THING LIKE IN EDUCATION,HEALTH CARE,LAND POLICY,CLEAN WATER SUPPLY IN RURALE AREAS,GENERAL DEVELOPMENTS SPECIALLY TELECOMMENATION,ELECTRICITY & INVESMENT.IN IF I HAVE A POWER WHAT I WOULD LIKE TO SEE CHANGE ERITREA SHOULD DO FORMAL REFERENDOM AGAIN NOT WHILE EPRDF WAS TRANESTIONAL GOVERNMENT LIKE THE PAST BUT AS UN DEMOCRATLEY ELECTED GOVERNMENT LIKE TODAY NOT BY SAYING SLAVERY OR FREDOME BUT TO STAY WITH OR TO SEPARET.AND OF COURSE ETHIOPIA TO BE INDEPENDENT OF ANY FORIGHIN POWER PRESSURE AND SAY NO TO FOOD AID WE CAN DO SUPPORT OUR SELVS AND OTHERS IF WE THINK ABOUT US NOT THEM.SELAM

i think eprdf have done a lot of good things in ethiopia but,when i always think about the ethiopia and eritrea war,it's make me very sad
becuse we are the same brothers.
1 why eprdf sent to eritrean from ethiopia?
2 did eprdf know that what was he doing at that time???did he say sorry about that??

--Samy

i think eprdf have done a lot of good things in ethiopia but,when i always think about the ethiopia and eritrea war,it's make me very sad
becuse we are the same brothers.
1 why eprdf sent to eritrean from ethiopia?
2 did eprdf know that what was he doing at that time???did he say sorry about that??

--Samy

i think eprdf have done a lot of good things in ethiopia but,when i always think about the ethiopia and eritrea war,it's make me very sad
becuse we are the same brothers.
1 why eprdf sent to eritrean from ethiopia?
2 did eprdf know that what was he doing at that time???did he say sorry about that??

--Samy

I SUPPORT EPRDF IN ALMOST IN EVERY THING LIKE IN EDUCATION,HEALTH CARE,LAND POLICY,CLEAN WATER SUPPLY IN RURALE AREAS,GENERAL DEVELOPMENTS SPECIALLY TELECOMMENATION,ELECTRICITY & INVESMENT.IN IF I HAVE A POWER WHAT I WOULD LIKE TO SEE CHANGE ERITREA SHOULD DO FORMAL REFERENDOM AGAIN NOT WHILE EPRDF WAS TRANESTIONAL GOVERNMENT LIKE THE PAST BUT AS UN DEMOCRATLEY ELECTED GOVERNMENT LIKE TODAY NOT BY SAYING SLAVERY OR FREDOME BUT TO STAY WITH OR TO SEPARET.AND OF COURSE ETHIOPIA TO BE INDEPENDENT OF ANY FORIGHIN POWER PRESSURE AND SAY NO TO FOOD AID WE CAN DO SUPPORT OUR SELVS AND OTHERS IF WE THINK ABOUT US NOT THEM.SELAM

I think you are the one who are telling us nebere ya'nebere,my reason is TPLF has reached the Ethiopian people here with all these sacrifices & eliminated the most brutal killer of our time.you talking about corruption,the corruptor & the corrupted are all Ethiopian & it is not appropriate to talk a hopeless kind talk,instead it is better to get organized & find a means to stop corruption.on the other hand trying to attack PM Meles personally & TPLF is ignorant & some times sickness.I personally know who is spreading hate about Meles & TPLF.it is those who can't have the gut to continue the struggle.these kind of people have been bragging for the last 20 years & they couldn't even bring some kind of change for the diaspora community,but they know how to cry an empty foul cry to atract the hearts & minds of Ethiopians for money purposes,now everyone knows after kinijit took another round money from the diaspora community.Mr, the appropriate question should be do we need a better gov't? yes! how? by patiently working together & respecting each other.this is the only way out of our problems...sincerely

Desta stop black mailing the TPLF! If any TPLF members still wanna serve their people they can & they deserve a prize for their courage.the main thing is those who ran away during the struggle are the ones who are creating all theses black mailings.believe me they deserve a respect not like this,you know what I'm saying man."Teshelimom,kebirom mistroto'om ente'zeykonu n'khuburat sebat kem'kelbi wutsu ayibahal'n newri eyu" semi'ekha do? desta yeqeniyeley...

Gezae,
Good job. I also read your other articles in Tigri online this week and i am impressed. Please keep writing. You have a deep insight and fair evaluation. I do not have to add any thing to your answer to Mr.DN as you answered is correctly.
Mr. DN,
Please be civilized and agree to disagree (it is the 21 century)
--LF
<mailto:meronalidia@yahoo.com>

Hae hae hae..." kegna wedia fuchit alu, af mamotmet" yilal yagere sew.egg...or chicken if there is no chicken there is no egg.a child is born with out knowing his citizenship & he will be growing up picking Tigrigna words from his mother & his mother will repeat the Tigrigna words back the same way as her childs pronouncement...isn't it melodic when you hear a child trying to talk?Tigrawai/ethiopiawi,Ethiopiawi/tigrawai...neger filega zuret kalhone besteker yihe manin'm offend ayaregim.you see bro? "fesawi'as ya mechanewi'a" may be yourself...Most TPLF haters are thiefs,mafias,shiftas...TPLF is naturally anti corruption... & Ethiopia is looking some body who wanna help her immediately.there is a stage of discussion in Ethiopia now lets not wish to bring down these gov't with out knowing what to do for our coutry. as the Ethiopian gov't don't worry no one can beat them in anyway.why won't we ask ourself if we can learn from EPRDF? this is the 33rd year of TPLF...victory after victory...& now victory on development... this gov't will never be intimidated by anyone.who ever tried to intimidate the TPLF had gone for ever,lets learn from recently mishaps.to mention the last crusader (kinijit),scrambling like egg kuch kuch...I personally don't worry about TPLF.what I worry is , about those individuals who try to take on TPLF.so far any group who treatens TPLF had seen its own demise...therefore ,think twice guys...sincerely

Believe me, Meles will stay in power for the next 10 years. I am not in favour of his stay.I acknowledge his contribution but eventually I am not comfortable with his ideology.He is loyal to USA not to Ethiopians.Above all the crime commited on Eritrea issue is unforgivable.we are still preparing to war which should have been ended before 5 years.He is pro-Eritrean. also we are suffering in aimless interfering in Somalia for the satisfaction of USA.I believe EPRDF is Meles,excpet yes men who appluad his idea .

Dr.Yohannes

Thanks Aiga for this opportunity.

"Le tekemach semay kirbu neaw"
I wish all of you who criticise Meles and EPRDF had a chance of playing a leader for one day. I have great respect for openions that are constructive, however many of the proposals and critics I read above are based on bias, "I know best arrogance", personal wishes, etc.

Let´s stay for a while and ask our selfs, when has our nation had such an economic progress, when did minorties get any chance for education and participation last, when did we last had a leader who works for the most underprivilaged in the country. I think some hate Meles for reasons that are oposit to what they claim for. In my openion he is the best that has happend the country in our lif time history. I am tired of you people who is drivin by emotional things and can not see you can feed hunger by empty words.
--Getu

Thanks Aiga for this opportunity.

"Le tekemach semay kirbu neaw"
I wish all of you who criticise Meles and EPRDF had a chance of playing a leader for one day. I have great respect for openions that are constructive, however many of the proposals and critics I read above are based on bias, "I know best arrogance", personal wishes, etc.

Let´s stay for a while and ask our selfs, when has our nation had such an economic progress, when did minorties get any chance for education and participation last, when did we last had a leader who works for the most underprivilaged in the country. I think some hate Meles for reasons that are oposit to what they claim for. In my openion he is the best that has happend the country in our lif time history. I am tired of you people who is drivin by emotional things and can not see you can feed hunger by empty words.
--Getu

TPLF/EPRDF is a crazy organization that should not exist in its current form and content. Sooner or later, it will have no place in a country like ethiopia, where the majority is die hard nationalist/ethiopianist.

Except for its market oriented economic policies, even in which case a few cronies of TPLF/EPRDF have been enjoying, the organization is more like DERG. You know where DERG is?

To avoid the same fate, be truthful to the people, stop killing and abusing fellow ethiopians, treat those opposition members elected by the people as the people's voice. Scrap your ethinic crap and start teaching and preaching unity. Stop fighting OLF and ONLF and start dialogue. Stop doing what DERG had done unto you years ago.

Let Melse go. Seltan R'st A'ydelem. Let Mesfin go elsewhere, Seltan Rst A'ydelm. Never show Bereket Seimon to ethiopians, he defines the constant lie TPLF/EPRDF has gotten used to.

Build the party on a new footing with old guard , may be, as a council. Do whatever it takes, peaceful measures, to gain access to sea. Even if you brush it aside, it won't be long before ethiopians start seeking and asking about access to sea.

No fighting with Asmera. Actually you are doing quite well on this. The mad dictator up north is already suffocated, he will gasp his last breath very soon.

Finally thanks for asking for views.

This is an insult to the conscience of millions. Please leave the Ethiopian peoples alone and satisfy your igo till the time comes

Party membership is becoming a ticket to promote many incompetent people.Many of them who have failed ESLCE are getting education in the Civil service college with all facilities provided and half of their salaries paid them.what for ?While those citzens who joined other universities with their own efforts donot get similar treatments.Besides those very incompetents get managerial position when they graduate.So this has to be corrected.Party membership should not be a bread and butter issue.It should be based on committment to ideas and programmes.
Particularly in Tigray it seems everything is working in line with the practices of the communists.That is one has to be a party member to get appointment and assigned in cities.
EPRDF should allow some freedom thought and debate to his members.Now they are mere echoes.One man thinks and the others just repeat what has been said with no critical look at it.
TPLF should stop thinking like the shabia.The Hade lbi -Hade Hager slogan.They should accept that they are not the only ones who think about the welfare of the people in Tigray.There are and could be legitimate alternatives.And that is why democracy is needed.So they should not play the old fashioned smear campaign methods.Things have changed.They should be ready to face challenges to their alternative.Branding someone who differs from ones opinion and involving in petty issues is a sure sign of lack of confidence.
Maximum transparency should be ensured in the activites of the endowment funds.

There is no doubt EPRD did significant change in Ethiopian's politics and economics in to the rightr direction. Those who blindly oppose EPRDF policy today by ignoring the good work EPRDF has done in the country need to think again who has to replace EPRDF before they finance and support other politicians aboard.

As long time EPRDF supporter, I notice that the party has no knowlage who is true its supporter or enemy. And yet it has a problem asigning the right people to send its message across. If its feorign political strategy continues the same we are in big trouble.
I hope EPRDF leaders will learn from past mistakes and asign the right people to the right position.
--A.yih

thanks Aiga, for giving this stage . there is no problem on the policy of EPRDF. the problem is on their regional gov't officials .they are illetrate and dependent. i came from the rural part of ethiopia i know what is going on there. the other problem on EPRDF is ignoring the majority and work with minority, i don't mean no work with minority, but ,it doesn't make sense ignoring the popn at large as gov't.
i appreciate meles's quality of leadership. but not others.
thanks
--yt
<mailto:hibyon@yahoo.com>

I did not have a chance to read to all the coments ginen,and I hpe i am not repeat what other have already said.
I am EPRDF supporter, i would like to see an onest and legitimate opposition so that we can have true democracy.
But i would like to see changes IN
1.Listening: It has been said again and agian EPRDF dose not listen to the public
2. Bureaucracy.Ethiopia will not make a transion to the next level of development unless the obstacle of bureaucracy is broken.How many years is going to take to tackle this problem.
3.Anticipation/proactive. From the war with Ertria to the remnant chauvinist whcih caused many peoples lives, it has been reaction after the fact.
4.Media freedom. Let them say what ever they want to say and let people judge them. The only way to have true democrcy is when people say what is in their mind.I know some remant who are not even journalist will use the form for the advancement of their agenda, but believe me it is better in the open than clandestinely. people have to decide the truth from the false for themselves.
5.agressively expose the reactionaries.Engage them in descussion with very tough topics
eg. do they believe there is national question in Ethiopia?yes or no. IF the answer is no then they will be exposed. if the answer is yes how do they plan to accommodate.Do they believe in fedralism or not?
6.Recruit more member in and outside the country.
7. Solve issue with Ertria as soon as possible one way or the other. We can let the maniac puking on us and disrupting our main goal that is improving the lives of our people.
8. Improve the government media and use it for better purposes and mobilize and engage the public.
9.

To make a constructive reform on EPRDF, I shall recommend the following.
Strong Points of EPRDF and to be kept up!
1. There believe in equality and respect for all of nations and nationalities in Ethiopia
2. The interest and dream to see a well
developed Ethiopia
3. The concern to the farmer and poor

Week Points that should be improved
1. they don't have a policy that works on the development of national patriotism rather it works against to the unity of different nations and nationalist due to overdose propagandas based on ethnicity. So they should have a policy that can bring our unity in one umbrella by creating a clear healthy "national patriotism" strategy
2. They listen always their words. They should try to give an ear for other comments so long as they are useful to the country even if they come from their political opponents or non EPRDF members.
3.They should be reluctant, flexible and democrat enough to accept comments and attract rational persons to their party. Always they attract to their party only "YES" men whom basically aiming at getting their personal benefits and advantages.
4. Most of top leaders really lacks the minimum national patriotism required from them by virtue of their position and responsibility though their are on the top hierarchy of the party and the government. To mention them almost all polite bureau members of EPRDF have not strong national feeling rather they give priority for their political power. For instance the failure on having PORT and losing Badme and Tsorona clearly shows this.
4. Currently the power is in the hand of one person, Ato Meles. And there is an indication of one man dictator ship policy in the country. So this should be avoided asap
5. There should be a limit for Ato Melese in particular and the term of Prime Ministry in general even for future.
6. More than every thing TPLF should able to giv power in the Tigray region to other new capable persons in the region as power is in the hands of the TPLF fighters for the last 17 yrs but proved that they are not capable enough to lead the region.Please enough is enough. Don't try to cheat the Tigray people by exchanging the zonal and woreda heads to other areas and boasting having reform.This is a shameful act.
7. The CC of TPLF shows a modern feudalism. Most of them are parental cousins of each other. This is a shameful activity in the 21st century.To mention some Haleka Tsegay << >> Kudusan Nega, Tirfu << >>Abay woldu, Birhanemeskel GK<< >>Arkebe, Sibhat Nega and so on . Even such a trend goes down to the woreda label. Please stop this feudalism.
8. EPRDF should be ready enough to accept a fair election and its result. They fought for this but I think they are not ready. Of course on last election I have not any reservation on what they did. I found EPRDF more rational than the opponents.
9. Freedom of press should be implemented asap.
10. EPRDF in general Meles in particular should stop to implement every thing to the interest of USA. We are a sovereign and independent country. Please our national interest should come first.
11. Avoid corruption and rule and law of the country should be practically implemented.Currently it lies on paper.It should start walking in the court room.

and so on
Peace

Why is the name Front until now? why not change to Party? Let land ownership be implimented. Solve either way the problem with Eretrea and and Somalia and and finish the job with onlf and other enemies of the country. What hapend to those who paid theire dear life to the armed strugle? Don't shift power unless you have too. More organizational power needed etc...

Hawaryat

--Hawaryat
<mailto:hawaryat08@gmail.com>

EPRDF is not boldly saying that Tigrayans have paid a lot (sacrificed a lot) for the peace, democracy and development of this nation. alas
--Wedi Mekelle

On the federalism thing which many have said relevant and irrelevant thing EPRDF should consider the following: respect the autonomy of the regions, let them learn from their mistakes else they will never take responsblity and will continue to complain about intervention from the center.
There is no choice to Ethiopia's ethnic federalism as it is wrongly labelled but soe surgery has to be done: individuals never feel secured in the differet regions and do not feel ike investing out side their ethic origin. More has to be done to ensur security and moblity of labor and capital. What are the courts and so called himan rights etc doing on this issue? regions have no say in the policy making at federal level, we all know it is the single federal parliament that decides everything, apart from party lines I mean, so how do the regions infuence policy making at the center, no institutional avenue,
Urgent work needs to be done as far as courts are concerned, it is very chaotic right now and there seems no hope.
keep up the good work

The current economic boom is mostly credited to the ruling EPRDF policy. I do not agree with some of the policies.

1. The right to sessed has been wrongly intrepreted by several ethnic groups. OLF/ONLF.The constitution has to be amended to remove this section.
2.Education Policy
Lot of young kinds getting unemployeed at early age and adding to the already high unemployment rate. Reinstitute back to 12 grade instead of 8th grade completion
3. Privatize the media(tv,radio,etcc) and have a strong FCC that would penalize the curlprite
4.Gradual privatization of Land.
5.There is not plan to improve transportation.
6.Export of Chat. Levy high tarrif on Chat and encourage people to engage in flower and other cash crops
etc.etc.

Admin,
Before the clutter overwhelms you, are you thinking of pruning relevant points from what you are hearing here? That way, you can make it easier (may be) to the powers that be to respond/react/pay attention to the raised issues.

Admin,
Before the clutter overwhelms you, are you thinking of pruning relevant points from what you are hearing here? That way, you can make it easier (may be) to the powers that be to respond/react/pay attention to the raised issues.

I think Aiga was asking opinion from former or current members of EPRDF and not for formers mebers of derg, EDU, EPRP, Moaambessa and all the enemiies of TPLf and EPRDF.

As a tigrean I believe TPLF has betrayed the Tigrean people. Once TPLf sets its foot in Addis the people who fought hard to bring change are all forgotten.
TPLF has turned itsel into tool of Amhara chauviniists and has declared war against those who were friends of Tigrai.

1- war aginst OLF was wrong. Unlike Amhara,OLF has no intention of occupying and subjugating the people of Tigrai. All they want is freedom and self determination of their own people. Freedom and self determination were the basic tenants of TPLF and by den