Promises of Reform and Governance Realities: Examining the Legitimacy Crisis in Abiy Ahmed’s Ethiopia

Betselot Adisu Ayal (), Yeshambel Tadele Alem () and Mekuanent Alemu Amanu ()
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Betselot Adisu Ayal: Dire Dawa University
Yeshambel Tadele Alem: Debre Markos University
Mekuanent Alemu Amanu: Dire Dawa University

Public Organization Review, 2025, vol. 25, issue 3, No 5, 907-924

Abstract: Abstract This study examines the legitimacy crisis in Ethiopia under the government of Abiy Ahmed, focusing on the gap between promised reforms and actual governance. A mixed methods approach is used to identify the factors driving the erosion of legitimacy. The results show that despite the early reforms and promises of democratization, reconciliation and economic revitalizations, optimism prevailed at first. The lack of a solid institutional framework that would ensure the implementation and sustainability of these initiatives has led to exclusionary policies, civil wars, exacerbated ethnic conflicts, increased political instability and widespread human rights violations. The government’s failure and inability to deliver on its reform promises to various stakeholders, coupled with the increasing militarization of governance and poor macroeconomic management, has ultimately led to widespread disillusionment and a loss of public confidence. This has deepened the legitimacy crisis, weakened Abiy’s support and lost his global credibility. The study recommends that all stakeholders must be part of the solution for national dialogue and reconciliation, inclusive governance and democratic institutions.

Keywords: Promises of reform; Legitimacy crisis; Public expectation; Abiy Ahmed; Ethiopia (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1007/s11115-025-00851-y

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