Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the resolution. I would like to begin by thanking Representative Smith for sponsoring H. Res. 128, which expresses support for human rights and encourages inclusive governance in Ethiopia. I am a cosponsor of this resolution, along with over 100 of my colleagues--a testimony to the work Mr. Smith has put into this effort. This resolution acknowledges the partnership between the United States and the Ethiopian Government. We have partnered together on many issues in the world: economic issues, global health issues, and security issues. Indeed, the Ethiopian military benefits from the U.S. counterterrorism and peacekeeping support programs that we work with them on. However, it also expresses concern at the unrest in the Oromo, Amhara, and Somali regions since 2015 and the human rights violations perpetrated against largely peaceful protestors. With the recent election of Prime Minister Abiy last month, Ethiopia now has an opportunity to emerge from this crisis to undertake the reforms called for in this resolution, including lifting the repressive state of emergency, repealing or amending proclamations used to suppress human rights, holding accountable those responsible for human rights violations, and releasing all remaining political prisoners.…”