Addis Ababa, May 4, 2025 (FMC) — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) has extended his warm greetings to Ethiopians ahead of the 84th Ethiopian Patriots’ Victory Day, which will be commemorated nationwide on May 5.
The day marks the victory of Ethiopian patriots in their struggle against the Fascist Italy occupation, which lasted from 1936 to 1941. It commemorates the end of the occupation and the return of Emperor Haile Selassie to Addis Ababa on May 5, 1941, symbolizing the upholding of Ethiopia’s sovereignty.
In his message, Prime Minister Abiy paid tribute to the sacrifices made by the patriots who resisted the occupation and fought to preserve Ethiopia’s independence.
He acknowledged that while Ethiopia achieved political freedom in 1941, the nation continues to face challenges such as poverty and underdevelopment.
The Prime Minister called for a “second generation of patriots” who would work to complete Ethiopia’s independence by addressing these modern challenges. He emphasized that today’s patriots must overcome poverty and backwardness through peaceful means, driven by knowledge, skill, and discipline, in order to lead the country toward prosperity.
Abiy also noted that the spirit of unity, resilience, and sacrifice displayed by the patriots of 1941 should serve as a foundation for ongoing national efforts to achieve lasting prosperity and unity.
Patriots’ Victory Day will be observed with ceremonies across the country, including at the Arat Kilo Patriots Monument in Addis Ababa, where citizens will gather to honor the memory of those who fought to uphold Ethiopia’s sovereignty.