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The controversy surrounding Daniel Kibret’s comments about the Ethiopian Orthodox Church’s appointment of bishops is just the latest example of the ongoing tensions between the government and the church in Ethiopia. The Ethiopian Orthodox Church has played a significant role in the country’s history and culture and has long held a powerful position in society. However, in recent years, the government has been accused of attempting to exert greater control over the church and its activities.
Critics argue that Kibret’s statements were an attempt to undermine the authority of the Orthodox Church, which has long held a powerful position in the country. This is not the first time that the government has been accused of interfering in the affairs of the church. In 2022, there was a coordinated smear campaign against the Patriarch of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church while he was traveling to the US for medical treatment. The campaign backfired and caused a significant backlash.
Daniel Kibret himself has also come under scrutiny in the past for making controversial statements. In 2021, the US government expressed concern over his statements that compared Tigrayan rebels to the devil and called for them to be “the last of their kind.” These statements were widely criticized as inflammatory and divisive.
Additionally, Kibret is not the only government ally to come under scrutiny for their actions related to the church. Controversial figure Pastor Yonatan, who is believed to be a close ally of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, has been charged with blasphemy by the Orthodox Church. Furthermore, a recent video that surfaced on social media in which he prophesizes the split of the Orthodox Church into two has stirred significant controversy.
These actions by close government allies raise questions about the government’s involvement in religious matters and its attitude towards the autonomy of the church. It also raises concerns about the government’s ability to manage religious diversity and ensure the rights of all religious groups in the country.
The current controversy has once again highlighted the delicate balance of power between the government and the church in Ethiopia and has sparked widespread criticism. Many believe that the government’s actions are an attempt to exert greater control over the church, which has traditionally been independent and autonomous.
The situation has also raised questions about the role and responsibility of government advisors in matters of religion. Some have called for Kibret’s resignation, arguing that he is not qualified to comment on such matters and that his statements were inappropriate and unhelpful.
In conclusion, the recent events surrounding the comments of Daniel Kibret, Social Affair Advisor to the PM, highlight the delicate balance of power between the Ethiopian Government and the Orthodox Church. It also raises questions about the role and responsibility of government advisors in matters of religion, the history of government interference in religious affairs in Ethiopia, and the need for more transparency and accountability in the government’s actions. Additionally, it raises concerns about the government’s attitude towards religious autonomy and diversity, particularly when it comes to its allies and their actions in relation to spiritual matters.
