June 2, 2025
In a recent interview, Ethiopian opposition figure Lidetu Ayalew called on health professionals to persist in their protests against the government until their demands for salary increases are met. He emphasized the critical role of healthcare workers and the necessity for the government to address their grievances promptly.
“Our health professionals are the backbone of our nation’s well-being,” Lidetu stated. “It’s imperative that their voices are heard and their needs addressed, especially in these challenging economic times.”
Healthcare workers across Ethiopia have been voicing concerns over stagnant wages and deteriorating working conditions, exacerbated by rising living costs. Despite government announcements of salary adjustments for civil servants, many in the health sector report that these changes have yet to materialize, leaving them struggling to meet basic needs.
Lidetu Ayalew, born in 1969 in Lalibela, is a seasoned politician and founder of the Ethiopian Democratic Party (EDP). He gained prominence as the deputy chairman and chief spokesperson of the Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD) during the 2005 general elections. Known for his advocacy for democratic reforms, Lidetu has been a vocal critic of successive governments’ policies. In recent years, he faced travel restrictions imposed by the Ethiopian government, which prevented his return to the country after a medical stay in the United States.
The ongoing protests by health professionals highlight the broader challenges facing Ethiopia’s public sector workers. As inflation continues to erode purchasing power, many are calling for more substantial and immediate government action to alleviate their financial burdens.
Lidetu’s support for the health workers’ protests underscores the growing pressure on the Ethiopian government to implement meaningful reforms and address the concerns of its workforce. As the situation develops, the resilience and unity of health professionals remain pivotal in advocating for their rights and the betterment of the nation’s healthcare system.
