Endalkachew’s Cabinet: Attempted reforms towards Constitutional Monarchy in Ethiopia (28 February-22 July, 1974)

Abstract

The objective of this article is to study Lej Endalkachew Mekonnen’s (herein after Endalkachew) cabinet which lasted between February 28 and July 22, 1974. The formation of the Cabinet and its activities already obtained official status since Endalkachew assumed his office on February 29 of the same year. No proper study has been attempted to fill a research gap on this topic as far as our knowledge goes. The methodology relies on qualitative data. Our sources have been tapped mainly from archives, magazines, manuscripts in private hands, Ethiopian press and oral testimonies. The findings suggest that there were several interventions from different corners due to the complex historical situation challenging Ethiopia and its imperial order. It also becomes apparent that the short-lived cabinet prepared the way for military intervened in the then Ethiopian politics. Even more clear is how the Cabinet forged an alliance with the Military Coordinating Committee led by Colonel Alem Zewd TesemmaTäsämma from April 24 to July 22, 1974. Last but not least this article  describes the way the created alliances functioned in that confusing moment as well as how the gradual power erosion prepared the way for the cabinet’s demise.-

Key words: Ethiopia, Endalkachew, Cabinet, Military, Constitutional Monarchy, Commission of Inquiry