In a surprising turn of events, Colonel Mengistu Haile Mariam, the former leader of Ethiopia’s Derg regime, has made a startling admission. For the first time since his exile, Mengistu has acknowledged that his departure from Ethiopia in 1991 was a premeditated decision, not a spontaneous flight as previously believed.
This revelation sheds new light on one of the most pivotal moments in modern Ethiopian history. Mengistu, who ruled Ethiopia with an iron fist from 1977 to 1991, fled the country as rebel forces closed in on Addis Ababa, marking the end of the Derg’s 17-year rule. His sudden disappearance had long been viewed as a hasty escape in the face of imminent defeat.
The admission raises questions about the events leading up to Mengistu’s departure and the level of preparation involved. It also prompts speculation about who might have been aware of these plans and potentially assisted in their execution. This new information may lead historians and political analysts to reassess the final days of the Derg regime and the transition of power that followed.
Mengistu’s statement is likely to reignite discussions about accountability for the actions of the Derg regime, which was responsible for the “Red Terror” campaign and other human rights abuses. It may also impact ongoing debates about reconciliation and justice in Ethiopia.
As news of this admission spreads, it is expected to generate significant interest both within Ethiopia and among the Ethiopian diaspora. Many will be eager to hear more details about the circumstances surrounding Mengistu’s planned exit and its implications for understanding this crucial period in the country’s history.
