For Eritreans who celebrated independence 30 years ago, the promise of a new democratic era under President Isaias Afwerki has been replaced by indefinite rule, silenced dissent and mass emigration.
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From Liberation Hero to Unchecked President
- Rise to power: In 1991, Isaias Afwerki led the Eritrean People’s Liberation Front to victory over Ethiopian forces. By 1993, as a charismatic 45-year-old, he pledged to reject “decades in power” and build a constitution-based democracy.
- Early optimism: International leaders like US President Bill Clinton praised Eritrea’s “strong start.” A 1997 constitution was ratified, setting the stage for free elections and separation of powers.
War and the End of Reform
- Border conflict: In 1998, a disputed frontier with Ethiopia sparked a devastating war. Afwerki postponed elections “until security returned,” effectively suspending democratic progress.
- Crackdown on critics: In 2001, eleven senior ministers (the “G-15”) and all independent newspapers were abruptly shut down. Political dissenters vanished into secret detention, never to be heard from again.
Concentration of Power
- No cabinet since 2018: Afwerki now conducts all government business personally at his hillside retreat near Asmara, ignoring a civilian cabinet or national assembly.
- Constitution buried: The 1997 charter was deemed “dead,” and a 2014 proposal for a new constitution never materialized.
Human Cost and Exodus
- Endless national service: Forced conscription and economic stagnation leave many Eritreans trapped. Tens of thousands risk perilous journeys abroad; Eritreans are now among the top nationalities granted UK asylum.
- Silenced voices: With media closed and no elections in sight, young Eritreans live under a regime they cannot change.
Looking Ahead
As President Afwerki nears 80, there is no clear succession plan or credible opposition. Eritreans continue their long, anxious wait for the freedoms once promised at the dawn of independence.
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