Introduction and Context
Ethiopia, Africa’s second-most populous nation, has experienced growing political repression in recent years. Opposition leaders, activists, and supporters increasingly face harassment, arrests, and violent crackdowns by state security forces. While the government frames its actions as maintaining stability, critics argue that these measures undermine democratic freedoms and entrench authoritarianism.

This article examines the targeting of political opposition in Ethiopia, exploring its roots, methods, and consequences for the country’s political future.

Historical and Political Background
Ethiopia’s political landscape has long been shaped by tension between central authority and regional or opposition movements. The ethnic federal system established in the 1990s was designed to balance autonomy with unity but instead deepened divisions.

When Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed came to power in 2018, initial reforms suggested a new democratic opening. Political prisoners were released, and exiled groups returned. However, optimism faded quickly as conflicts in Tigray, Oromia, and Amhara escalated.

Facing growing unrest, the government shifted towards repression, reviving tactics of intimidation and silencing used by past regimes.


Methods of Repression
Security forces employ a range of methods to suppress political opposition:

- Arrests and detentions: Opposition leaders and activists are frequently detained without charge under terrorism or incitement laws.
- Crackdowns on protests: Peaceful demonstrations are often dispersed with excessive force, including live ammunition and mass arrests.
- Surveillance and intimidation: Activists and party members face monitoring, harassment, and threats.
- Restrictions on parties: Some political organisations are denied registration or barred from operating in certain regions.

These measures have crippled opposition parties, leaving little room for meaningful competition in the political arena.


Consequences for Democracy and Society
The targeting of opposition has serious consequences for Ethiopia’s democracy. Citizens are denied genuine representation and the ability to hold leaders accountable. Elections are undermined when opposition parties cannot campaign freely or when their leaders are imprisoned.

Civil society also suffers, as activists working alongside opposition groups face similar repression. Communities that feel excluded from political processes are more likely to resort to violence, deepening Ethiopia’s instability.

Internationally, Ethiopia’s democratic credibility has eroded, complicating relations with donors and partners who prioritise human rights.


Reform, Protection, and Conclusion
For Ethiopia to move forward, it must end the repression of political opposition and embrace genuine democratic reform.

Key steps include:
- Legal reform: repeal or amend repressive laws used to silence opponents.
- Accountability: investigate abuses by security forces and prosecute perpetrators.
- Dialogue: open inclusive talks between government, opposition, and civil society.
- Electoral integrity: ensure free, fair, and transparent elections with equal participation.
- International engagement: encourage international observers and mediation to support democratic processes.

Unless Ethiopia creates space for opposition voices, it risks descending further into authoritarianism and conflict. Protecting political freedoms is essential for peace, stability, and national unity.