Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has taken an unconventional step, putting his cabinet ministers through military training as part of his government's broader push toward defense readiness.
The move fits a pattern for Abiy, who has previously made military preparedness a centerpiece of his governing vision. Having ministers train alongside soldiers sends a clear signal about where his priorities lie, and what kind of leadership culture he wants to build inside his administration.
Details on the length, location, and specific content of the training have not been fully disclosed, but the image of cabinet officials in fatigues is already making waves. It raises questions about the line between civilian governance and military culture, and what this kind of exercise means for how Ethiopia's leadership sees itself on the continent.
Watch this space. As Abiy continues to shape his government's identity around strength and discipline, this training may be just the beginning of a bolder, more visible militarization of his political brand.
Originally published by BBC Africa.