A former judge and opposition leader have been sworn in as the head of Ethiopia’s electoral board. Birtukan Mideksa is the latest significant appointment of a woman to a key public office. Prime minister, Abiy Ahmed while nominating Mideksa, described her as one with respect for the rule of law, and possessing the ‘stamina, independence and impartiality’ needed at the electoral board. Some lawmakers reportedly questioned her independence, considering her past roles as an opposition leader and critic of the ruling coalition. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has carried out wide-ranging reforms since coming to office in April.

Source: Ethiopian News November 22, 2018 12:00 UTC