The Amhara Regional Council has appointed Arega Kebede as the new President of the embattled Amhara Region. He replaces Yilkal Kefale, who stepped down from the role today, citing social, health and family reasons.
Arega was sworn into the position during a council session held in Bahir Dar, the regional capital, to approve his appointment on the same day as Yilkal’s resignation. His assumption of the presidency comes at a tense time as the region remains under a State of Emergency.
The emergency order, which aims to enforce law and order in the region, was issued in response to fighting between rebel groups and government forces across Amhara in recent months.
