Ethiopia’s parliament has re-elected Abiy Ahmed as prime minister for another five-year term following the country’s general election in June.
Abiy took the oath of office to formally begin his new mandate, Africanews reported.
His ruling Prosperity Party secured 438 of the 547 seats in the election, according to the report.
Abiy Ahmed takes oath for new term
Ethiopia’s president and senior government officials attended the swearing-in ceremony.
The new term gives Abiy another five years as head of government.
His administration begins its mandate at a time when Ethiopia is facing renewed internal security challenges.
Recent fighting has involved Ethiopia’s armed forces and a newly formed group identified by Africanews as the Ethiopian Peoples’ Forces Alliance for Survival.
According to the report, the armed group is seeking to remove the government.
Ethiopia faces renewed regional tensions
The government has also accused neighbouring countries of supporting armed groups operating against Ethiopia.
Eritrea is among the countries Ethiopia has accused, according to Africanews. The report did not provide evidence supporting the allegation.
Ethiopia also announced the closure of its embassy in Eritrea on Thursday.
The developments come amid renewed fighting and growing regional tensions.
Abiy’s new five-year mandate therefore begins as his government faces both domestic security challenges and strained relations with neighbouring countries.