Political Party Warns of Escalating Public Frustration Over Addis Ababa Evictions
The Ethiopian People’s Revolutionary Party (EPRP) has raised concerns about the growing discontent among residents of Addis Ababa, warning that public anger could intensify if the rights of citizens continue to be neglected during the city’s development projects.
In a statement, the EPRP highlighted violations of the human rights of Addis Ababa’s residents, particularly in relation to the construction of a new corridor through the city.
The party cautioned that if the frustrations and bitterness of the public are not addressed, it could lead to widespread public anger, potentially resulting in further social unrest.
The EPRP emphasized that while the development and international standing of Addis Ababa are important, these goals should not come at the expense of the rights and welfare of its residents.
The party stressed the need for a balanced approach to development, one that respects both the economic growth of the city and the well-being of its citizens.
Abebe Akalu, chairman of the Addis Ababa Committee of the EPRP, expressed deep concern over the destruction of homes, small businesses, and livelihoods due to the ongoing corridor project.
He criticized the Addis Ababa City Administration for failing to consider the impact of the project on the lives of residents, accusing the authorities of implementing the development without proper timing or consultation with those affected.
“Harassing residents by demanding that they demolish their homes within a few days, issuing eviction orders, and disregarding the interests and rights of the people is completely inappropriate and violates human rights,” Abebe said during a press conference.
Despite these concerns, Addis Ababa Mayor Adanech Abebe defended the city’s actions, stating that the corridor development was being carried out with the consent and trust of the public.
She assured that any demolitions or resettlements caused by the project would be preceded by thorough discussions with the community.
The first phase of the corridor development, which began in February, was slated for completion within three months.
In late August, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed inaugurated the second phase of the project, which spans 132 kilometers and covers 2,817 hectares of land. This second phase is expected to impact eight areas of the city.
However, the EPRP’s Abebe Akalu has argued that the second phase of the project is proving even more disruptive than the first.
He accused the city administration of continuing to demolish homes, evict residents, and ignore the grievances of those affected.
“The Addis Ababa City Administration continues to disregard the voices of the people, evicting and displacing residents due to its negligence,” Abebe said.
He urged the administration to take immediate corrective measures, giving priority to the concerns of the city’s residents.
The EPRP’s statement further warned that if these issues are not addressed, the growing bitterness among Addis Ababa’s residents could escalate into anger, potentially leading to social divisions and unrest.
The party expressed concerns that ignoring the legitimate grievances of the public could have broader consequences for society as a whole.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed recently stated that the corridor development project, which began in Addis Ababa, will also be implemented in other cities across the country.
While urban beautification and development projects are important, they must be carried out with sensitivity to the rights and livelihoods of the people, the EPRP stressed.
Besides the EPRP, three other political parties—Enat Party, All Ethiopian Unity Organization, and Ghion Amhara Movement—have criticized the Addis Ababa City Administration’s corridor development plans, stating that they are completely violating the rights of residents.
