Ethiopia to adopt presidential system, strengthening Abiy Ahmed's authority

Addis Ababa – Ethiopia’s ruling coalition has announced plans to amend the nation’s constitution to replace its parliamentary framework with a presidential system, a shift that would concentrate executive authority in the office of the prime minister. The proposal, which must pass both houses of parliament and be ratified by a national referendum, outlines a new structure in which the president, elected directly by voters, would serve as both head of state and government, consolidating powers currently divided between the prime minister and the legislature.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, who has pursued extensive political and economic reforms since taking office in 2018, stands to gain a stronger mandate under the revised system, according to analysts familiar with the draft. Supporters argue the change could streamline decision‑making and enhance stability, while opposition parties warn it may undermine checks and balances and entrench incumbent power. The government has scheduled public consultations in the coming weeks, with the final amendment expected to be put to a referendum before the end of the year.