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Ethiopian expats in the UAE celebrate democracy day

DUBAI — Members of the Ethiopian community in the UAE marked the anniversary of the downfall of dictatorship and the advent of democracy in their country at a function here on Wednesday.

Music and dance performances representing various Ethiopian tribes enthralled the audience at the celebrations held at SAS Radisson.

Speaking to Khaleej Times, the Ethiopian Consul-General in Dubai, Abdullah Yusef, said, "May 28, 1991 was an important date and a major turning point in Ethiopia's history heralding the end of dictatorship in Ethiopia and the beginning of the process of democratisation. The day also marks the laying down of the foundation for a new Ethiopia in which various nationalities and people live with equality and freedom."

Members of the community expressed their happiness on the occasion. "The celebration of the National Day here in the UAE gives us an opportunity to get together as Ethiopians to share the celebration with our people back home," said one of the community members.

Fatima Khidir said, "We have been waiting for this great day which ensured us peaceful living in our country. We join the celebration to express our feeling of love for our homeland. I thank the organisers for bringing us together to experience the feeling of being at home."

Fathia Radi, another Ethiopian national said she came all the way from Al Ain to celebrate the National Day and enjoy being with Ethiopians in Dubai and the Northern Emirates.