Meles Zenawi Quotes

But I think we need to remember that democracy everywhere is by its nature incomplete, a work in progress.

In Ethiopia, democracy is in its infancy and it must be nurtured along by its leaders.

All politicians will have to change to be worthy of our people.

If I were to say anything to people I may say people should vote for those who are respectful to democracy, rule of law, who get on well with people.

As a senator, I will prioritize overturning the current system and restoring openness and integrity to our government to return power to the people.

Even when you cherish democratic ideals, it is never easy to turn them into effective democratic institutions. This process will take decades.

Africa doesn't need strongmen, it needs strong institutions.

The citizen can bring our political and governmental institutions back to life, make them responsive and accountable, and keep them honest. No one else can.

The people of Zimbabwe have a responsibility to ensure that the government that they elected behaves properly.

What should be targeted is a concept of organic, and not just mechanic, democracy that preserves the rule of law, separation of powers, and that is participatory and pluralistic.

The fight for reform comes down to a simple goal: giving our citizens the confidence that government serves the people first and the people only.

Decision making in a democracy depends above all on knowledge and not just the intel available to presidents and policymakers.

Thank God for our form of government. The media won't let there be any cover-up.

In the 21st century, the countries that thrive will be the ones where citizens know their voices will be heard because the institutions are transparent.

One of our most noble political tasks is to open up trust.

You need a certain standard of literacy, moral and ethical values, to be able to run a one man, one vote system.

It's not just parliament that requires radical modernisation. It's our democratic processes.

I do strongly believe myself that members of the government who sit in the House of Lords should be accountable to the elected House because otherwise there is a democratic deficit, and that is wrong.

Our political system needs changing. It needs to move away from personalities and patronage to a system of party programs and consultation with the people.

Nobody should be allowed to tinker with democracy. We will not discontinue the good works of the past government.

It does not matter what party you are a member of in this great Nation of ours. Accountability and competence are characteristics that Americans value throughout our great land.

After all, I have spent the better part of my adult life insisting that government be open... that government be accessible... and that government be held accountable to people who voted us into office.

I would love to be the African leader that steps down, that overthrows this idea of a Big Man ruler. I don't want to stay in office forever.

It is time for the world, the hemisphere and the region to make sure that relevant institutions of civil society and relevant laws are embedded in the mechanisms of governance.

The secret ballot makes a secret government; and a secret government is a secret band of robbers and murderers.