𝗔𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗳𝗮 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗯𝗼 || 𝗘𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗼𝗽𝗶𝗮𝗻 𝗟𝗮𝘄𝘆𝗲𝗿, 𝗔𝘀𝘁𝘂𝘁𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗻, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗰 𝗪𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗿

Assefa Chabo, a significant figure in Ethiopian politics and literature, passed away on April 23, 2017, in Dallas, Texas, at the age of 73. Originating from Chencha, Gamo Gofa, Assefa often reflected his love for his birthplace in his works, including his book "Yetizita Feleg," a collection of essays spanning decades. During the tumultuous times of the '60s, '70s, and '80s, Assefa stood out with his controversial yet influential presence among his peers. Despite being a non-native speaker, his command of the Amharic language in non-fiction writing was unparalleled. His views, original and often contentious, sparked debate among supporters and critics alike. His journey from Chencha to the national political scene was marked by both achievements and challenges. Starting his education in an ecclesiastical school in Chencha, he later moved to Shashemane and eventually to Addis Ababa, where he joined the Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority as a Meteorologist. His time at Haile Selassie I University (now Addis Ababa University) coincided with student revolts and regional uprisings, where he was actively involved in student politics. Assefa's political career was as turbulent as it was impactful. His writing in Addis Zemen and his popularity from the 1972 Phillip C. Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition paved the way for his political involvement. He played a significant role during Ethiopia's crucial political junctures in 1974 and 1991. Assefa was not affiliated with the major political groups of the time, such as EPRP or Me’eson, but was instrumental in forming the EOPRS (Ech’at), mainly comprising individuals from southern Ethiopia. His complicated relationship with government officials, especially Mengistu Hailemariam, eventually led to his imprisonment in Ma’ekelawi, where he spent over a decade, part of it in solitary confinement. After his release, Assefa briefly joined the transitional government post-1991 but soon faced accusations in the Addis Zemen daily, leading to his exile in the United States, maintaining a connection with his homeland through writings and social media, despite his seclusion. Assefa's unexpected death in a hospital in Dallas, far from his cherished Chencha, was a profound loss. Assefa's life, marked by political fervor, literary genius, and personal trials, remains a significant chapter in Ethiopian history. This interview conducted by Dereje from Finfinne Radio stands out as exceptionally engaging, insightful, and informative, showcasing his unparalleled intelligence, extensive knowledge, and deep understanding. It highlights why he is regarded as one of Ethiopia's most profound thinkers, possessing remarkable depth and breadth in his thoughts. #ethiopia #assefachabo #yetizetafeleg #writer #politician #lawyer