The conflicts rocking Ethiopia continues apace with scores killed in the past fortnight in certain restive parts of the country in clashes among different ethnic groups. The death of innocent citizens is beyond words. “Appalling”, “egregious”, “heartrending” do not even come close to describing the grievousness of the calamity that pain and sorrow inflicted on Ethiopians.

The universities of Ethiopiahave earned the moniker “little Ethiopia” on account of the fact that they are populated by students from every corner of the country. They have always been regarded as platforms for a civilized dialogue, not as combat zones where students engage in verbal and physical skirmishes.

It was 23 years ago yesterday on December 8, 1994 that the type of federalism Ethiopia currently follows was instituted through the adoption of the constitution. A covenant which enshrines cardinal principles instrumental in forging a single political and economic community the constitution aims at creating a new federal state by rectifying historically unjust relationships.

One of the basic metrics by which the welfare of a nation is measured is the wellbeing of its people.

The free flow of alternative ideas is one of the fundamental prerequisites without which the people of Ethiopia cannot dream of living in peace and freedom. Allowing the free expression of diverse views is essential in creating a free and democratic society.

The single most important factor that breeds mistrust between the public and the government is lack of transparency. Without trust both cannot respect each other.

The destiny of a nation is the concern of its entire people, not just a select few. This is why all citizens have a collective responsibility towards ensuring the survival of their country.

The rule of law is the abiding principle on which a nation’s survival rests. The moment this principle is flouted the specter of lawlessness endangering the constitutional order becomes all too real.

The disregard for the sanctity of human life is continuing apace. At a time when the innocent are dying in shocking circumstances it’s not the number of dead that should be of prime concern; one death is one too many.

The fever pitch state Ethiopia’s politics presently, which has given rise to confusion and misgiving, does not bode well for the long-term interest of the nation and its people.