The chairman of the Movement for Justice, Freedom and Democracy, Dr. Berhanu Nega,told Tizita of the Amharic service’s Democracy feature that the mission of his party is to establish a new political system in which government power and political authority is achieved through a peaceful and democratic process.
Dr. Berhanu, as the leader of the Coalition for Unity and Democracy in the 2005 elections, won the popular vote to become mayor of Addis Ababa.In the aftermath of post-election violence in which 199 died, he was among many politicians and journalists jailed on charges of genocide.Since his release, he has formed a movement thatis willing to try to achieve regime change by all necessary means.
He accused the ruling Ethiopian People’s Revolutionary Democratic Front of stealing the 2005 election, and since then of terrorizing and weakening all opposition forces to maintain unchallenged control of the government. Recalling his personal political engagement with the leaders of the ruling party, Dr. Berhanu said the current government will never agree to a peaceful transition of power and civil political discourse.
Behanu said his group, Ginbot 7, will cooperate with other organizations who believe in principle of democracy.But, he said, he will consider all means necessary, including armed struggle, to remove “the EPRDF group” from power.
Tune in Thursday, February 26 for part 2 of his interview.Berhanu will also be the guest of Amharic’s Call-in Show on Saturday, February 28.If you have a question for our Call-in Show guest, call 202 205 4447 ext. 14 and ask or e-mail it to us at horn@voanews.com or tbelach@voanews.com.You may also call or e-mail your telephone number and we will call you back to state your question.
