Mohamed Hamid, director of the Benichanurgur Gums Regional Justice Department, dismissed the claim that the area’s recent constitutional reforms were politically motivated, stating that the constitution was “multi-ethnic and inclusive” and “has nothing to do with the voting station or electoral district.”
Speaking to the regional broadcaster on March 16, 2025, Mohamed explained that the amendment was necessary to address “long-standing questions,” and that it was launched by the regional cabinet before “became approved by a majority vote after discussion with competing political parties.” He emphasized that the revision has expanded parliamentary seats from 100 to 165 based on “social and economic needs.”
“There are complaints that suggest that we will dismantle polling stations for competing parties and reorganize them, but this has nothing to do with polling stations or constituencies,” he said, adding that concerns about the restructuring of elections were “putted by mistake.”
The amendment faces resistance from the Boro Democrats (BDP), an opposition party operating in Benichanle Gums, which petitioned Ethiopia’s Constitutional Research Council to challenge the legality of Ethiopia. BDP members argue that the change in districts exceeded the council’s constitutional order, as seat expansion is not based on population size. The dispute escalated after the arrest of three BDP members, including Regional Council representative Johannes Tesema, a few days after the petition was filed.
Then, on March 15, Benichangul Gums Regional Council held an emergency session to lift the council immunity of Councillor Johannes Tesema. Mohamed, who presented the allegations during the session, said Johanne was “spreading information on social media to incite conflict, damaging the honour of the region and councils and reducing its reputation.” He further argued that Johannes’ actions were intended to “induce and divide ethnic groups,” and that there were “symptomatic connections with elements that would forcefully overthrow the government.”
In an interview with local broadcasters, Mohamed also recalled that the regional constitution was amended twice without similar opposition, saying, “Current protests stem from political elites rather than reflecting people’s desires.” He also urged individuals to spread inflammatory content online and refrain from activities that could “provoke public anxiety.”
