(AV) Hailemariam Dasalegn swore in on Friday during an extraordinary session of the EPRDF/TPLF dominated parliament. In his first address to the nation as Prime Minister, he heaped praise on the former dictator and promised that his “vision” will continue unadulterated.

Hailemariam gave no hint to the regime’s intent on starting a process of national reconciliation, respect for the constitution and any goodwill gesture such as releasing political prisoners. While he said that efforts would be made to improve the justice system, respect for basic rights and strengthen “democratic institutions”, he warned that measures would be taken against those engaged in “terrorist acts” under the guise of religion. This appeared to be aimed at intimidating Ethiopian Muslims who are fending off government interference in their faith through vigorous and organised protests.

He also said that the capacity of the defense force would be boosted to defend the “constitution” from internal and external forces that aspire to commit “anti-peace and terrorist” acts.

Hailemariam’s appointment as the new Prime Minister has been received with mixed reactions. So many Ethiopians believe that the death of Meles Zenawi and the change in the political dynamics is a revolution by itself. But is also widely believed that Hailemariam Dasalegn is the new frontman serving TPLF’s hegemonic rule.