Ethiopia’s Deputy Prime Minister, Demeke Mekonnen, a long-serving figure within the governing Prosperity Party (PP), has announced his resignation during the ongoing convention of the PP’s central committee.
In addition to stepping down from his prominent position in the party, Mr. Demeke will also vacate his roles as the country’s Foreign Minister, as reported by local media.
Hailing from the Amhara region, which has faced ongoing armed conflicts for the past six months, Mr. Demeke has been a key political figure, holding the position of Deputy Prime Minister since 2012 and taking on the role of Foreign Minister in 2020.
The void left by Mr. Demeke’s departure is anticipated to be filled by Temesgen Tiruneh, the current head of the intelligence service, who has been elevated to the deputy chair of the PP. Reports suggest that Tiruneh might also assume the ministerial positions previously held by Mr. Demeke.
As the PP’s convention progresses, further changes are expected within the party’s leadership and structure. The developments reflect a dynamic political landscape in Ethiopia, particularly in regions marked by persistent conflicts.
