The Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Abiy Ahmed, has ordered this Friday that all members of his Cabinet undergo a military training program, with the aim of strengthening the "discipline, responsibility, coordination and sense of patriotism" that, in his view, senior executive officials should embody.
In a message posted on his social media, Abiy underlined that the Government’s aspiration to promote 'Medemer' --a philosophy of "synergy" and unity created by the leader to reconcile a multiethnic country through forgiveness, inclusion and the pursuit of national development-- and "build the civilization of Ethiopia" requires leaders in good physical shape.
"To build the civilization of Ethiopia, we must ensure comprehensive development. This involves material and spiritual development, of a civilization adorned with cultural and moral excellence. For this, leadership requires comprehensive preparation. Physically developed, morally strengthened and intellectually refined," the prime minister explained.
According to Abiy, military training and the experience associated with it can help to strengthen the "discipline, responsibility, coordination and sense of patriotism" demanded of government officials.
The Ethiopian head of government maintains that this training seeks to provide senior officials with skills and practical background applicable to the implementation of the Government’s Medemer vision, which includes harmonizing strategic thinking, mobilizing citizen involvement, fulfilling commitments to the population and strengthening national security.
"Military science, experience and life are unmatched when it comes to shaping human purpose and personality," Abiy pointed out, arguing that military institutions instill physical and moral discipline, work ethic, cooperation and willingness to take on assigned tasks.
Likewise, he linked this program with the Executive’s purpose of building what he defined as an "unbreakable country," capable of facing internal and external pressures, while preparing future generations to assume leadership responsibilities.