Okay, I’ve read the provided text about Isaias Afwerki, the president of Eritrea. Here’s a summary of the key points:
Early Promise: In the early 1990s, after Eritrea gained independence, Isaias was seen as a charismatic leader who inspired hope for a democratic future. He criticized older African leaders for clinging to power and promised a democratic order for Eritrea. He was well-received internationally,including by the US.
Shift Away from Democracy: Despite drafting a constitution in 1997, national elections never materialized. The border war wiht Ethiopia in 1998 was used as justification to postpone elections.
Crackdown on Dissent: After the war with Ethiopia ended in 2000,calls for reform from within his own government (the G-15) were met with repression. In 2001, independent newspapers were shut down, and members of the G-15 were arrested and disappeared.
Consolidation of Power: Isaias made it clear he had no intention of participating in a multiparty system. he dissolved the transitional assembly and weakened the cabinet, consolidating power in his own hands.
Pariah status: His actions led to Eritrea becoming isolated internationally.
Supporters’ View: Despite the criticism, he still has supporters who view him as a symbol of national liberation and believe he was unfairly targeted by western nations.
* Attempted Coup: An attempted coup in 2013 may have prompted him to announce plans for a new constitution, but no progress has been made.
In essence, the text portrays a leader who initially promised democracy but ultimately became an autocratic ruler, suppressing dissent and clinging to power.
