By HAN News Desk
ADDIS ABABA — Prominent Ethiopian politician Lidetu Ayalew has issued a sharp critique of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s current strategy regarding Ethiopia’s access to a seaport, warning that the approach could have serious political and regional repercussions.
In a recent statement, Lidetu said: “If Abiy Ahmed succeeds in securing a port for Ethiopia and benefits from it, I will step down from politics the following day. It would mean that I was a foolish guarantor, incapable of understanding politics.”
He elaborated on the regional and internal risks, saying: “If you threaten with the power of 130 million people while instilling fear in 3 million, and neighbouring countries view you as an enemy who will block your ambitions, the risks are clear. I am the first politician to write and speak openly about these issues.”
Lidetu’s remarks come amid longstanding tensions over Ethiopia’s lack of direct access to the Red Sea. Since Eritrea gained independence in 1993, Ethiopia has been a landlocked country, relying heavily on Djibouti and, to a lesser extent, Sudan and Somaliland for its imports and exports. The push to gain direct port access has become a central political and economic issue in Ethiopia, with strong nationalist sentiment attached to the goal.
Analysts say that Ethiopia’s attempts to secure a port could provoke opposition from neighbouring countries, many of whom have strategic interests in controlling access to the Red Sea. “The Horn of Africa is a complex geopolitical environment,” said political analyst Dr. Mebratu Tesfaye. “Any unilateral moves by Ethiopia to gain port control could lead to diplomatic tension or even confrontation with its neighbours.”
Lidetu’s statement also reflects internal political challenges. By warning that Ethiopia’s government strategy could backfire, he is highlighting the potential domestic consequences of overreach. Analysts note that Prime Minister Abiy faces both popular expectations to secure trade routes and internal scrutiny over the cost and feasibility of ambitious port projects.
The comments have sparked discussion among opposition figures and civil society in Ethiopia. Some see Lidetu as a voice of caution, urging careful diplomacy, while others argue that his warnings could undermine efforts to strengthen Ethiopia’s economic sovereignty.
The issue of port access remains one of the most sensitive topics in Ethiopian politics, touching on questions of national pride, economic security, and regional diplomacy. Lidetu’s remarks underline the delicate balance the Ethiopian government must maintain to achieve its goals without inflaming tensions at home or abroad.
