World leaders have been conveying their congratulatory messages to newly elected president of Ethiopia, Sahle-Work Zewde.
Zewde is the country’s first ever female president, and was voted unanimously on Thursday during the second Special Joint Session of Ethiopia’s two houses of parliament – the House of Peoples’ Representatives and the House of the Federation
Her election is the latest development in a string of reforms being implemented by the administration of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed.
Abiy was sworn in on 2 April, replacing Hailemariam Desalegn, who resigned in February after months of anti-government protests in the Oromia and Amhara regions.
He has foreseen a raft of changes in the country, including signing peace deals with rebel groups and other countries.
Zewde will replace Mulatu Teshome who resigned in unclear circumstances, and may go on to serve two six-year terms.
She is an experienced diplomat who has held several positions with the United Nations. Most recently she was the UN Director General at its offices in the Kenyan capital, Nairobi.
Her election has been hailed by leaders from all around the world including United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, African Union Commission chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat among many others.
Here are some of the messages shared on social media;
Congratulations to Sahle-Work Zewde & to Ethiopians, on your first woman president & new cabinet in which women ministers head key departments. The African continent is leading the way in showcasing that women’s engagement and leadership are crucial to lasting peace. #SCR1325
— António Guterres (@antonioguterres) October 25, 2018
“Congratulations to President Sahle-Work Zewde on being elected the first female President of Ethiopia – a strong symbol of growing female empowerment in Africa.” – PM @Theresa_May
— UK Prime Minister (@10DowningStreet) October 26, 2018
Congratulations to Ms. Sahle-Work Zewde – first female President of #Ethiopia! Inspiring news for future women leadership around the world.
— Dalia Grybauskaitė (@Grybauskaite_LT) October 26, 2018
I am proud to hear that a former UN official, Sahle-Work Zewde, has become the first female President of Ethiopia. Congratulations, Madam President! Women do make a difference. We are proud of you! #genderequality #UN4ALL pic.twitter.com/qlmkAIJJgi
— UN GA President (@UN_PGA) October 25, 2018
