Ethiopia’s economic condition has become a growing concern for its citizens, with rising inflation, soaring fuel prices, and an overall increase in the cost of living. Two of Ethiopia’s most renowned athletes, Haile Gebrselassie and Feyisa Lilesa, have recently voiced their perspectives on the issue, but their views stand in stark contrast to each other.
Haile, a legendary long-distance runner and successful businessman, has openly expressed concern about the state of the economy, acknowledging the struggles that many Ethiopians face daily. Meanwhile, Feyisa, known for his protest against political repression at the 2016 Rio Olympics, made a dismissive remark about the rising fuel costs, which sparked widespread criticism. This article delves into the two athletes’ statements, their implications, and the public response to their contrasting views.
Haile Gebrselassie: “We Are All Ashamed to Admit How Hard Life Is Becoming”
Haile Gebrselassie, a two-time Olympic gold medalist and multi-time world record holder, has transitioned from being a celebrated athlete to a businessman. His ventures span from hotels to agriculture and real estate, making him one of the most financially successful athletes in Ethiopia.
Recently, Haile expressed his concern about Ethiopia’s deteriorating economic conditions, stating:
“We are all ashamed to admit how hard life is becoming.”
His words resonated with many Ethiopians who have been grappling with inflation, a devaluing currency, and an increased cost of essential goods. Haile’s statement was seen as an acknowledgment of the daily struggles that ordinary citizens face—high food prices, unemployment, and the difficulty of making ends meet.
As someone who has worked to build businesses and create jobs in Ethiopia, Haile’s perspective carries weight. His acknowledgment of the economic crisis contrasts with the government’s often optimistic portrayal of the economy. By voicing his concerns, Haile positioned himself as an advocate for the people, calling attention to the realities on the ground.
Feyisa Lilesa: “Sell Your Car and Ride a Horse”
In stark contrast, Feyisa Lilesa, the marathon runner known for his bold protest against government repression in 2016, made remarks downplaying the impact of rising fuel costs. Responding to concerns about fuel price hikes, Feyisa stated:
“I don’t think there will be anyone who buys a car and worries about the price of fuel. If not, he can sell his car, buy a horse, and ride on the corridor development that Abiy built for him.”
His comment, seemingly sarcastic and dismissive, sparked massive backlash. Many Ethiopians criticized him for ignoring the broader impact of fuel price hikes beyond car owners. His remarks suggested that those affected should simply adapt rather than question the economic policies in place.
Critics pointed out that rising fuel prices do not only affect car owners. Transportation costs increase for everyone, affecting food prices, goods transportation, and daily commutes. For a country where public transport is the primary means of travel for millions, fuel price hikes ripple across the entire economy, making life more expensive for ordinary citizens.
Many viewed Feyisa’s statement as an out-of-touch remark, particularly because he resides abroad and may not directly experience the economic hardships that many Ethiopians endure. His words stood in stark contrast to the empathy Haile displayed, leading to a heated debate on social media.
Public Reaction and the Larger Debate
The reactions to both athletes’ statements reflect the broader division in Ethiopian society. Haile’s comment was met with support, as many appreciated his willingness to acknowledge the economic crisis. On the other hand, Feyisa’s remarks received widespread criticism, with social media users expressing frustration over his apparent disregard for the struggles of ordinary Ethiopians.
Some defended Feyisa, arguing that his comment was satirical, meant to highlight the government’s emphasis on infrastructure projects while people struggle with daily necessities. However, the overall sentiment leaned toward disappointment, with many feeling that an athlete once seen as a voice for the people had now distanced himself from their struggles.
Economic Reality vs. Political Narratives
The contrasting statements of Haile and Feyisa also highlight the ongoing debate about Ethiopia’s economic trajectory. While the government has promoted large-scale infrastructure projects, many citizens feel that their immediate needs—affordable food, housing, and transportation—are not being adequately addressed.
Haile’s statement aligns with the concerns of business owners, workers, and everyday citizens who feel the economic squeeze. His words indicate a need for policy changes that prioritize people’s well-being over large-scale development projects.
Feyisa’s remarks, on the other hand, mirror the rhetoric of government supporters who often dismiss economic complaints by pointing to infrastructure improvements and long-term benefits. However, for people facing rising prices today, long-term promises do little to alleviate their struggles.
Conclusion: The Role of Public Figures in Economic Discourse
The debate between Haile Gebrselassie and Feyisa Lilesa’s perspectives is a reflection of Ethiopia’s broader economic and political discourse. Public figures, especially those with influence, play a significant role in shaping public opinion. Haile’s empathetic acknowledgment of economic struggles earned him respect, while Feyisa’s dismissive tone drew criticism for being out of touch.
Ultimately, their differing views highlight the divide between those who acknowledge the country’s economic hardships and those who prefer to downplay them. As Ethiopia continues to navigate economic challenges, the voices of respected figures like Haile and Feyisa will continue to influence public discussions. However, the response to their statements shows that the Ethiopian people demand realism, empathy, and solutions—not indifference.
I don’t think Feyisa is down playing our people’s struggles, rather pure sarcasm