Overview

Constitutionally Ethiopia is a federal democratic state although in practice it is dominated by one political coalition. The opposition parties claim they have no chance of challenging the incumbent. The rural majority, as ever, feel controlled from above, unable to influence political decisions. Observers describe elections as manipulated and non-representative of the will of the people for whom the word democracy frequently appears to be synonymous with domination and coercion. Democracy is a concept reflecting European philosophies, struggles and concerns. Many Ethiopian ethnic groups have traditions which may offer more satisfactory and culturally acceptable foundations for a sovereignty of the people through time-honoured ways of voicing political ideas, ironic observations and vital interests. In line with modern urban life Ethiopians also organise and express their interests in non-governmental organisations, the independent press and advocacy groups representing political and social alternatives. The contributors to this book analyse the democratic potential of these movements and practices, their ability to give a voice to the view from below and their potential contribution to a more genuine participation by the majority of Ethiopians in democratic decision making and bringing the sovereignty of the people a step closer to reality. Essays focus on four key areas: - Traditional Systems Of Governance - The Peasant And The Management Of Power And Resources - Alternative Loci Of Power - Alternative Voices

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9789171065018

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Bahru Zewde is professor of history at the University of Addis Ababa, specialising in modern Ethiopian history and intellectual history. He has a Ph.D. from London University. Bahru is the author of a number of books and articles, including A History and Modern Ethiopia (1991) and Pioneers of Change in Ethiopia. Siegfried Pausewang is a rural sociologist and a senior research fellow at the Chr. Michelsen Institute for Development and Human Rights in Bergen, Norway

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