BREAKING NEWS: OPDO Replaces Aba Dula Gemeda by Alemayehu Atomsa

The Oromo People’s Democratic Organization (OPDO) today replaced its chief Abadula Gemeda, also current President of the Oromia region, by Alemayehu Atomsa.

The replacement was announced on the ongoing general assembly of the party held in Adama (Nazreth). During the general assembly, OPDO elected its chairman, vice chairman and members for Central Committee.

The newly elected chairman, Alemayehu, from West Oromia, is a long time member of the party. He also served as a general manager of Ethiopian Radio and Television Agency (ERTA). The current Deputy Chairman, Muktar Kedir, remain on his position.

According to sources, Aba Dula also got the third largest vote next to Kuma Demekssa and Girma Birru to join the Central Committee membership. OPDO elected 65 individuals for the Central Committee. The number of CC members is increased to 65 from the previous 40.

Pundits in Addis are speculating that the result of such party level elections within EPRDF can indicate the upcoming alignment in the new cabinet of PM Meles Zenawi. Aba Dula, according to some observers, can assume the Deputy Prime minister’s position in the new cabinet substituting Addisu Legesse of ANDEM.