Public events in Ethiopia’s capital have evolved into battlegrounds for historical narratives and political power, according to a recent study by the Ethiopia Peace Research Facility (PRF). The report, titled “Politicizing Public Events in Addis Ababa,” examines how events like Adwa Victory Day, the Irrecha festival, Meskel Square commemorations, and the Great Ethiopian Run have become platforms for advancing competing agendas and fostering social tensions.
Since the 2018 elections, Ethiopia has witnessed a significant shift in its political landscape, marked by the clash between two dominant narratives: the “Great Tradition” (GT) narrative, which emphasizes central state power and national unity under Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, and “Counter-Histories” (CHs), which seek to elevate marginalized voices and challenge dominant interpretations.
The Adwa Victory Day celebrations illustrate this conflict, with the GT narrative glorifying Emperor Menelik II’s leadership while CHs highlight the contributions of marginalized groups often excluded from official accounts. “Historical events often become hotbeds of memory, where political alignment and interpretations of socio-economic realities shape,” the report states.
Once mere memorials, public events in Addis Ababa have transformed into platforms for political expression. The Irrecha festival, for example, now symbolizes the struggle for cultural recognition, while races and other events reflect tensions between religious and historical identities. The Great Ethiopian Run has become a forum for political expression, illustrating how these events actively contest historical memories and reflect broader power dynamics in Ethiopian society.
The report emphasizes that historical interpretation lacks inherent objectivity, reflecting diverse perspectives shaped by unique societal experiences. This multifaceted nature of history is not a flaw but a reflection of its dynamic character. Competing narratives play a central role in shaping collective memory and grievances.
The study urges policymakers to consider historical power inequalities in national processes such as national dialogue, transitional justice initiatives, and restorative programs. Addressing past abuses is crucial for encouraging reconciliation and building a more just society. “Current national processes in Ethiopia should carefully consider the role of historical power imbalances in shaping collective memory and grievances,” the report recommends.
