The proposal to establish a new “Central Ethiopia” regional state out of existing Southern Nation Nationalities and Peoples Regional State (SNNPR) continues to generate debate, with little clarity on its ultimate fate. Among leading the opposition is Jemil Sanni of the Gurage Unity and Justice Party, citing Ethiopia’s constitutionally enshrined right to self-determination. - Advertisement -However, the government proposes creating a Central Ethiopia as a solution without holding any referendum, fueling accusations of high-handedness from figures like Jemil. He argued any solution requires careful consideration and consensus, with no one-size-fits-all answer for the complex ethnic federalism challenges facing Ethiopia. The strategy will help alleviate the tense situation that arose as a result of the formation of the Sidama regional state and the conflict over Hawassa city.

Source: Ethiopian News August 12, 2023 11:59 UTC