PLATFORM : Aid the Transition

The Ethiopian community in Southern California is very concerned about the installation of a transition government controlled by the EPRDF (Ethiopian People’s Revolutionary Democratic Front). The EPRDF has said it wants the government to own and control land and major industries. That kind of state control would be an economic disaster and would further expose the Ethiopian people to hunger.

Ethiopia needs a transition government that represents all segments of society. Many groups would like to take part in the political process. These groups don’t have guns. But they do have political followings.

The EPRDF has said it is willing to work with the United States during the transition. The United States has the power to ensure that a representative transition government is established. The United States should use that influence. If the U.S. government doesn’t participate in the transition process, I’m afraid another rebel military resistance will be formed--leading to more fighting and more killing.