Ethiopia’s federal government honoured Hailemariam Desalegn who resigned his post as prime minister last February. He was awarded a national medal and given a citation at an official farewell ceremony held at the national palace in Addis Ababa.
Desalegn was accompanied by his wife Roman Tesfaye. She was also decorated with a medal and a national diploma in recognition of her social engagements during her tenure as first lady.
His successor Abiy Ahmed showered Desalegn with praise for his leadership during a hard time in the country’s history. Abiy said Desalegn had played a unique and very valuable role to ensure that Ethiopia had a historic peaceful transfer of political power.
Desalegn reiterated his call for citizens to give Abiy the needed support to carry out the ruling EPRDF’s reform agenda. An emotional Desalegn also thanked the government for the honour bestowed upon him.
