BY: HABTAMU GIRMA DEMIESSIE
(Assistant Professor of Economics at Jigjiga University, Ethiopia)
When I think of Donald J. Trump, I see a well built institutional system in USA. Had it been to his zeal, the world would have burnt out. But, the Americans devised a sophisticated system to limit the ego of their leaders and statesmen.
Not to mention the check and balance scheme among the three arms of a state, the American legislation allows even to limit the presidential decree. The recent senate decree to limiting the presidential powers of Trump on Iranian affairs is a recent showcase in this regard.
By any standard, Trump’s leadership personality don’t fit the mighty of USA. We can mention countless cases and events on that. Luckily, whatever he speaks does not mean implemented, thanks to the American system of governance. However, that do not bring an excuse for his second term in office.
The thing Trump is doing against Ethiopian interest is nothing but a reflection of his absurd personality. Trump is unaware of this great Ethiopian nation and its people. I think Trump confused with paralleling the poor material state of Ethiopians with their immeasurable moral sense and determination to their freedom & sovereignty of their country. My message to him is to learn about Ethiopia and its people!
ETHIOPIAN VALUES CANNOT BE EXCHANGED FOR DOLLARS!
On its March 5/2020 issue, the US based Financial Times Newspaper reads that US Ready to back Ethiopia’s Reform with $5 billions Investment. The 5 billions of dollars provided must be for mutual benefit of both countries, Ethiopia and USA. Indeed that if the US firms come to Ethiopia, it must only be for shared economic interests between Ethiopia and USA. No more no less!
If there is a string attached with the billions of dollar which threatens the sovereignty of Ethiopia or defy the values of Ethiopians, let them go back with their money!
USA has to be clear with Ethiopian values and history, that we never ever put our freedom and sovereignty to sale. In this regard, the recent stand of USA against the Great Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, a flagship project for us, is unacceptable.
Ethiopians are very concerned about US stance on GERD. Trump administration was illusive of its role in the recent negotiations with Egypt, both as an arbitrator and a judge. His move amounts humiliating our existence as a sovereign nation. That is shame on America, and consequential on the country’s image in the eyes of the world.
For a country often alleged for its double standards on global affairs, Trump’s stand on GERD adds up to the distrust of America. That, by and large, interpreted into eroding the influence border of USA.
This way, Trump can not keep America Great Again!
Let me say it again, I think Trump is confused with paralleling the poor material state of Ethiopians with their immeasurable moral sense and determination to their freedom & sovereignty of their country.