Prime Ministers Of Ethiopia Through History

The Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia is located in the Horn of Africa, and borders Eritrea, Somali, Djibouti, Sudan, Kenya, and South Sudan. The country occupies a total area of 1.1 million square kilometers, with Addis Ababa being its capital and largest city. Ethiopia is a federal parliamentary republic with the Prime Minister as the head of government. The prime minister is nominated by the president from among the members of the House of People’s Representative. 

Makonnen Endelkachew

Makonnen Endelkachew served as Ethiopia’s prime minister between 1943 and 1947 under Emperor Haile Selassie. He is described as the “Mountain man” because he weighed over 300 pounds. Despite his size, he was gentle, kind, and friendly. Makonnen Endelkachew was a ceremonial Prime Minister who was given to intellectual pursuit as opposed to the political pursuit. Because he was not fluent in English, he could not participate in international debates. He retired on November 1, 1957.

Abebe Aregai

Abebe Aregai was a military officer who led a group of fighters during the Italian Occupation before his appointment to the role of Ethiopian Prime Minister on November 27, 1957. He was also the commander of the Addis Ababa Metropolis police. Abebe Aregai played a critical role in the restoration of Emperor Selassie, who had left the country during the Italian Occupation gaining the name “Ras” in the process. On the Liberation Day on May 5, 1941, Abebe Aregai lined up his men along the streets of Addis Ababa to welcome the Emperor. He also served in several ministerial positions including defense and interior as well as governor general of Tigrai. He was killed in the attempted coup of 1960.

Aklilu Habte-Wold

Aklilu Habte-Wold was Ethiopia’s foreign minister before his appointment as Prime Minister under Emperor Haile Selassie on April 17, 1961. He was also the Tsehafi Taezas alongside the premier position. Because of the political rivalry and power struggles that existed within the Imperial Family, Aklilu Habte-Wold’s policies on land reforms and constitutional changes were opposed. His influence in the country cannot be identified because his interest was on politics rather than reforms. His leadership was characterized by protests, economic downturn, and military unrest. By 1973, he had grown weary because the premier’s position did not come with the authority that was required to deal with these challenges. He finally resigned on March 1, 1974, but was heavily criticized for abandoning the government without restoring the law and order in the country. Aklilu Habte-Wold together with his brother and other 60 men were arrested and executed on November 23, 1974, leading to a worldwide protest.