Addis Ababa August 09, 2016(WIC) – Deputy Prime Minister Demeke Mekonnen has warned that “the government and the general public will not tolerate groups working to bring down the constitutional system by force.”
Demeke, who is also Chairperson of the Amhara National Democratic Movement (ANDM), stated that the latest unauthorized demonstration was destined to abolish the constitutional system.
Article 30 of Ethiopia’s Constitution permits peaceful demonstration, with organizers taking full responsibility, he recalled, dubbing the latest uprising in some parts of Oromia and Amhara unconstitutional.
“The latest move is intentionally planned to overthrow the legitimate government,” he cautioned.
The organizers had the intention of creating havoc in the country, according to Demeke, who blamed the overall action on foreign forces who do not want to see a strong Ethiopia.
“There are forces inside and outside of the country who want this nation to stand fragile,” he said indicating activities countering the illegal move.
Demeke confirmed that the illegal demonstrations have been put under control with the involvement of the government and the public, without meeting their purpose.
He stated that the so called protestors were brandishing weapons of war which is entirely against the country’s Constitution.
According to Aster Mammo, Vice Chair of the Oromo People’s Democratic Organization (OPDO), the failed demonstrations in some parts of Oromia were not in compliance with the set rules and regulations.
Aster called the move the work of enemies who want to grab power unconstitutionally, according to the report by Fanabc.com
She assured that the government will stand firm in guarding the constitutional system from anti-peace elements.
Offering proper responses to public demands is among the key tasks of the government, the official said, calling on the public to maintain support to the government in dealing with such illegal acts.