#Ethiopia, are you uncomfortable with this video too? Don’t get me wrong, it’s a great religious speech but also #Abiy is the Prime Minister.
let me explain 1/6 https://twitter.com/AbiyAhmedAli/status/1253187647876534273?s=20

This #Ramadan speech and especially his #Fasika message were masterclass sermons. His ability to connect theology to real life in such a practical manner is admirable. He beats most preachers at their game. 2/6

But @AbiyAhmedAli risks losing credibility this way. This overuse of religious terminologies in official government speeches is unnecessary and unauthentic. One can’t play a pastor and a sheikh in the same week and expect to be believed in both roles. 3/6

#Abiy is playing with fire. Some may find it heartwarming after years of "secular" leadership but no one knows when this will backfire and burn us all. Today it’s a well wishing message but tomorrow it could be weaponized for political purposes, if it isn’t happening already. 4/6

When we allow government officials to use religion for a seemingly good purpose like this, it’s only a matter of time for religious leaders or pretenders to find their way into politics as well. First, they will preach "morality" and next who knows what? 5/6