Ethiopia’s longstanding Deputy Prime Minister, Demeke Mekonnen, has announced his resignation from his prominent position within the governing Prosperity Party (PP).
The announcement took place during the ongoing convention of the PP’s central committee.
Mr. Demeke, who also serves as the country’s foreign minister, will step down from both his roles, according to reports from local media.
Hailing from the conflict-affected Amhara region, Mr. Demeke has been a key figure amid Ethiopia’s recent political challenges, serving as deputy prime minister since 2012 and taking on the role of foreign minister in 2020.
Temesgen Tiruneh, the head of the intelligence service, has been promoted to deputy chair of the PP, and there are speculations that he may assume Mr. Demeke’s ministerial positions.
Further changes within the party’s leadership are anticipated as the convention progresses.