Ethiopian politician and political analyst Lidetu Ayalew will be featured in a special live phone interview on the weekly diaspora program “Voice of Ethiopia”, broadcasting via Radio Sydväst on Sunday, June 22, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM CEST.
The exclusive two-hour segment, facilitated by journalist Kidus, will delve into pressing national issues in Ethiopia and the role of the global Ethiopian diaspora in shaping political discourse and civic engagement. This rare opportunity will give listeners a chance to hear directly from one of Ethiopia’s most recognized democratic voices.
The interview, facilitated by journalist Kidus, comes at a time of heightened political tension in Ethiopia. The federal government has officially listed Lidetu as “wanted”, alleging his involvement in a conspiracy to destabilize the state and unlawfully remove the sitting administration.
.🔥 What to Expect from the Interview
In this bold and politically charged conversation, Lidetu Ayalew will break his silence on what he calls the deepening authoritarianism of the current Ethiopian regime. The interview will focus on:
- ⚖️ Alleged human rights violations under Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s government, including unlawful detentions, crackdowns on dissent, press censorship, and militarized political repression
- 🛑 Strategies for stopping the Prosperity Party’s consolidation of power, and how citizens, civil society, and the diaspora can push back
- 🗳️ The erosion of democratic institutions, the dismantling of electoral accountability, and the dangers of one-party dominance
- 🌍 The role of the international community in responding to Ethiopia’s human rights crisis
- 🤝 A call to the Ethiopian diaspora to mobilize for justice, inclusive politics, and constitutional rule
- 🕊️ The path forward: possibilities for nonviolent resistance, coordinated political pressure, and democratic renewal
In what is expected to be a frank and fearless discussion, Lidetu will address not only the charges against him but also provide a broader vision of how to restore Ethiopia’s democratic future.
🔹 About Lidetu Ayalew
Though he has been politically sidelined in recent years inside Ethiopia, Lidetu has remained a visible intellectual force through interviews, writings, and diaspora media appearances. His speeches are often cited for their clarity and boldness — and for challenging both state power and opposition orthodoxy.
In 2023, he has become a focal point of controversy after Ethiopian authorities accused him of plotting to overthrow the government. He has denied the charges and claims they are part of a political vendetta to silence dissent. He now lives in exile, where he continues to engage with the Ethiopian public through international media.
Lidetu Ayalew is known for his sharp political analysis, moderate reformist stance, and his continued engagement in Ethiopian political thought through media, speaking engagements, and publications. His views often focus on balancing national unity with democratic freedoms and the peaceful co-existence of Ethiopia’s diverse communities.
🎧 How to Listen
Available via FM radio in Stockholm and live-streamed worldwide on Radio Sydväst’s 88.9 and Voice of Ethiopia YouTube channel and on our website
This is expected to be one of the most consequential diaspora interviews of the year — both politically and symbolically.
🔹 Program Details
- 📻 Program Title: Voice of Ethiopia
- 🎙️ Station: Radio Sydväst, Stockholm (FM and online streaming)
- 📅 Date: Sunday, June 22, 2025
- 🕙 Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Central European Summer Time)
- 🌐 Language: Amharic
- 📞 Audience Interaction: Live phone-in session during the second half of the program
- 🧭 Facilitated by: Journalist Kidus
