The Clash Between Church and State — A Grave Threat to Ethiopia’s Unity
By Muluken Tekleyohanes, Ambassador Media
April 2023
In recent months, Ethiopia has witnessed a disturbing escalation of tensions between the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church (EOTC) and the federal government. The controversy stems from a group of bishops in the Oromia region who, in February and March 2023, declared the formation of a separate ecclesiastical structure and appointed their own patriarch — actions the Holy Synod of the EOTC has condemned as unconstitutional and illegitimate.
This unprecedented schism has ignited protests across Ethiopia, deepening existing ethnic and political divides and endangering the fragile social fabric of the nation. More concerning still are allegations that elements within the federal and regional governments have either supported or failed to adequately oppose these actions, raising serious concerns about the state’s neutrality in religious affairs.
The Ethiopian Orthodox Church is not merely a spiritual institution; it is a cornerstone of Ethiopia’s historical, cultural, and national identity. For centuries, the Church has played a vital role in unifying the diverse peoples of Ethiopia through a shared faith and tradition. Attempts to fracture this sacred institution along ethnic or political lines pose a direct threat to the country’s unity and long-term stability.
It is essential to recognize that religious freedom and autonomy are foundational principles of a democratic society. Any interference by the government in the internal matters of the Church is not only a violation of the constitutional principle of separation between church and state, but also a dangerous precedent that could erode trust between citizens and institutions.
At this critical juncture, all parties must act with restraint, wisdom, and an unwavering commitment to peace. The government must reaffirm its impartiality and work to de-escalate tensions through dialogue rather than coercion. Meanwhile, the Church must be allowed to address its internal challenges according to its own canonical laws and traditions, free from external manipulation.
Failure to resolve this crisis peacefully and respectfully could have catastrophic consequences, not just for the EOTC, but for the future of Ethiopia as a whole.
At Ambassador Media, we call upon Ethiopia’s leaders — political, religious, and civic — to prioritize national unity, uphold the rule of law, and safeguard the spiritual and cultural heritage that has sustained Ethiopia for millennia.
The future of our nation depends on it.
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