Addis Ababa, August 1, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopia’s future depends on the ability to examine its history fully, learn from both its achievements and mistakes, and avoid selective interpretations of the past, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said.
In an interview with Amhara Media Corporation (AMC), the Prime Minister said Ethiopia’s historical experience contains important lessons that should guide the country’s future rather than become a source of division.
He said history must be understood in its entirety, including both positive and difficult chapters, because societies can only progress when they recognize lessons from their past experiences.
Prime Minister Abiy cautioned against choosing only certain parts of history or reshaping events according to particular interests, saying such approaches create breaks in national narratives and prevent future generations from learning from the full historical picture.
He noted that Ethiopia’s present challenges are partly linked to the way historical narratives have been handled, particularly when interpretations of the past are shaped selectively rather than through a balanced assessment.
The Prime Minister said Ethiopia’s political history has also been marked by repeated attempts to secure power through force, a pattern that has affected the country’s political development over time.
He stressed that moving beyond such historical patterns requires a different approach to politics, one that draws lessons from the past instead of repeating practices that have created instability.
Prime Minister Abiy said Ethiopia’s history should not be reduced to a single interpretation, as it contains diverse experiences, achievements, struggles, and shortcomings that must all be acknowledged.
He also expressed concern that historical events are sometimes presented selectively, including situations where both those who suffered and those responsible for harm are portrayed as heroic figures, creating confusion in public understanding.
The Prime Minister said history should not be used as a political instrument for division or narrow interests. Instead, it should serve as a source of reflection, allowing society to recognize mistakes, preserve achievements, and build a stronger future.
He further noted that distorted historical narratives can become tools for political conspiracy analysis and produce consequences that are harmful to both the present generation and those to come.
Prime Minister Abiy emphasized that a balanced understanding of history is essential for shaping Ethiopia’s political culture, saying the country’s future depends on drawing lessons from its complete historical experience and using them to advance unity, responsibility, and national progress.