René Lefort

Political shake-up and localism can edge Ethiopia forwards

To end paralysis, the political landscape needs to be restructured along ideological lines, and resurgent grassroots democracy must smother elitism.

7 years

Ethiopian elite lost in electoral maze under Abiy’s gaze

Despite Ethiopia's challenges, there is little sign of corresponding action from the political elite, leaving the path open for Abiy…

7 years

“Leba! Leba!” Abiy inspires farmers’ revolt in North Shoa village

Emboldened by the Prime Minister's dismantling of the status quo, youthful malcontents in rural Amhara are taking the fight to…

8 years

René Lefort: A seven-point response to Messay Kebede’s critique

René Lefort responds to Messay Kebede's criticism of his recent analysis of the perils facing Ethiopia's reform process.

8 years

Ethiopia: Climbing Mount Uncertainty

Abiy Ahmed has halted Ethiopia's infernal spiral and delighted citizens with bold reforms, but he has also made three mammoth…

8 years

Abiy’s first Q&A raises more questions than answers

Abiy Ahmed's first press conference left some tough questions on restoring law and order, the path to free elections, and…

8 years