Borkena
Toronto – Businesses in the Merkato area of Addis Ababa have reportedly gone on strike in protest of what they describe as the ongoing “injustices” they have faced.
According to a report by Anchor Media aired on Thursday, the strike has been ongoing for three consecutive days, with businesses closing their doors. Merkato, which has been referred to as one of Africa’s largest open-air markets, has been notably quiet during this period.
The strike comes amid rumors and concerns that the government plans to demolish parts of the area as part of a corridor development project—a scheme that has already displaced hundreds of thousands of Addis Ababa residents.
A reporter speaking to Anchor Media from Addis Ababa stated, “The government has been repeatedly asked to halt its unjust actions against businesses in Merkato. Meetings between the business community and government officials have failed to reach any agreement.”
Among the grievances are tax hikes implemented to fund projects launched without consulting the residents or the business community.
Two large fires within a month in the area—one of which completely destroyed a business plaza—have further alarmed the local business community.
Many fear the government plans to sell the area to investors from the Gulf region, a move that has been speculated following previous instances of privatization when the administration faced financial challenges.
In an apparent attempt to ease tensions, the Addis Ababa City Administration announced on Thursday that it had donated 20 million Ethiopian birr to businesses devastated by the fires, which are suspected to have been arson-related.
Despite these efforts, the government has been unsuccessful in convincing businesses to reopen during the past three days.
Reports indicate that the strike is spreading to neighboring areas such as Awutobes Tera, Sebategna, Gojam Berenda, and Telkehaymanot, where businesses have also begun to close.
Residents in the Sheger city have also been affected by the strike, with reports suggesting that strikes are beginning to emerge in this city as well.
Abiy Ahmed’s government, which initially gained popularity, has seen its public trust and legitimacy erode in less than three years. The country is now facing a complex humanitarian, economic, and security crisis due to ongoing conflicts in various regions.
There are concerns that the strike in Merkato could escalate into broader anti-government protests, both within the city and beyond.
At the time of writing, neither the Federal Government Communication Services nor the Addis Ababa City Administration have commented on the reported strike in Merkato.
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Merkato has been the backbone of Ethiopia’s economy and the Abiy government is burning and destroying it like he did to many businesses and homes through out the area. This is madness and this strategy bad for the economy and destroying many families and lives.
In a country where there is a huge unemployment, it is a shame that the government is callously destroying businesses and demolishing homes. Families have been evicted from their homes and their children from their schools. This is inhumane besides a bad economic decision. This government has lost touch with the reality, leading Ethiopia economically and politically.
The Woyane article 39 is the only reason Abiy is still in power, given his unpopularity. Ethiopians need to wise up against forces that divide them using artificial categorization as Amhara, Gurage, Oromo, Tigree and try to live at least in peace and eventually work to build a vibrant economy. If not all will suffer and live in fear and misery for a foreseeable future. Abiy has become the engine that is running that sad trajectory. All Ethiopians need to unite to force him to resign to form a more democratic and lasting government.
What does Article 39 have to do with Abiy Ahmed Ali?
To be honest, that part of the constitution is really a good thing and very interesting. It reveals the hatred Ethiopians have for themselves. Think of all the people from Debub with Amharic names or all the people from Shewa who call themselves Abesha….. and don’t get me started about Gurages!