Abiy Ahmed puts cabinet ministers through military training at Hurso

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has enrolled members of his cabinet in rigorous military training exercises at the Hurso military training center. The initiative, which is rare for senior civilian officials in the country, seeks to instill the discipline and teamwork characteristic of the armed forces into the nation's political leadership. Abiy argues that these traits are essential for addressing Ethiopia's complex national security environment and driving its socio-economic development.

The training session included high-ranking officials such as Muferiat Kamil, the Speaker of the House of Federation, and Finance Minister Fitsum Assefa. According to the Prime Minister, the program focuses on fostering accountability and a shared sense of purpose among the executive branch. By participating alongside his ministers, Abiy intends to model a leadership style that prioritizes collective action over individual bureaucratic processes.

This move comes as Ethiopia faces significant internal and external pressures. The country continues to navigate the aftermath of the conflict in the Tigray region and ongoing security challenges in Amhara and Oromia. Additionally, the training occurs against a backdrop of heightened diplomatic and military tensions with neighboring Eritrea. The government maintains that such exercises are vital for achieving universal prosperity and ensuring that the leadership is physically and mentally prepared to tackle the country's pressing challenges.