Stockholm, Sweden – In an in-depth and highly anticipated 2 hour interview aired on Voice of Ethiopia via Radio Sydväst 88.9 FM, renowned Ethiopian politician Lidetu Ayalew delivered a bold critique of the current Ethiopian government, accusing it of widespread human rights violations and calling for organized, peaceful action to bring about democratic change.
The special program, facilitated by Biniyam and journalist Kidus, brought together Ethiopian voices across continents, giving diaspora listeners a rare opportunity to hear directly from one of Ethiopia’s key political thinkers.
Human Rights in Crisis
Throughout the interview, Lidetu Ayalew strongly condemned the Ethiopian government’s use of violence, mass arrests, and political suppression. He detailed the silencing of journalists, detention of opposition figures without due process, and military actions against civilians in conflict regions.
“Ethiopia is in a dangerous place,” Lidetu stated. “A government that governs through fear, repression, and division is not legitimate. What we are seeing is a collapse of the rule of law.”
How to Replace the Current Regime
Lidetu made clear that violent revolution is not the solution — but coordinated civic resistance, mass mobilization, and international advocacy are.
“This regime will fall — but it must fall through peaceful, strategic, and people-led action,” he said. “Change won’t come from shouting on social media. It will come through unity, discipline, and courage.”
He called for the formation of a broad coalition of pro-democracy forces, both inside the country and in the diaspora, to challenge authoritarian rule and build a new democratic framework.
Diaspora’s Role and the Path Forward
Biniyam and Kidus pressed Lidetu on the role of the Ethiopian diaspora, to which he responded:
“The diaspora must do more than observe. You must support independent media, fund civic initiatives, and pressure host governments to hold Ethiopian leaders accountable.”
He urged young Ethiopians abroad to get organized, not along ethnic lines, but around shared values of freedom, justice, and national reconciliation.
A Powerful and Timely Conversation
The interview, described by listeners as “historic” and “urgently relevant,” ended with a message of hope:
“Our country is wounded, but not broken,” Lidetu concluded. “With unity, wisdom, and relentless truth-telling, Ethiopia can rise again.”
Biniyam and journalist Kidus thanked Lidetu for his candor and commitment, noting the overwhelming response from listeners throughout Sweden, Europe, and beyond.
A full replay of the interview is now available on the Voice of Ethiopia youtube page and Radio Sydväst 88.9’s online streaming platforms.
