Meles Zenawi

 Some Ethiopians protested against the federalism of ethnic origin that Meles government had crafted. Meles' TPLF party believed that there was no other choice. This was to end centuries of oppression by the centralists and the rule of language, culture and economy over the Amhara. However, certain parties, such as the OLF (Oromo Liberation Front) that was a partner in drafting the constitution, are able to see Amhara and Tigrayan domination of the country. The policy of the government had two goals: to enable all ethnicities and to develop their language and culture. It was also widely accepted as a solution for the need to establish a governance system that was favored by ethnic liberation groups as well as parties that took part in the July Convention of Nationalities 1991. In response to those who say ethnic federalism can bring tensions, Meles said that this policy was beneficial to a variety of interests, including the equitable distribution of wealth as well as the an empowerment of ethnic groups. Meles said the Ethiopian democratic system was built upon the efforts of the government to eliminate poverty and ensure equitable distribution of wealth. The people of Ethiopia must be able to choose to their own terms in accordance with their culture. The power must be transferred to them in ways they comprehend and understand the significance of their ethnicity. .... Different approaches to development had been oppressive and hegemonic, and resulted in internal strife and civil war