72. In other words, the path towards a developmental state is quite complex, complicated and bumpy. Ethiopia has to tread this path carefully and patiently in order to reach its goal. It is only a democratic route to development that can guarantee the country’s safety and security and safeguard its dignity. In this quest, Ethiopia should also approach the challenges of democratising the development process in the true spirit of a people-centred and people-driven development.            73. While Ethiopia should be congratulated for its remarkable progress since the dawn of the contemporary era, in 1991, under the EPRDF government, the APR Panel urges that more should be done to address the challenges identified below. The transition offers the country a unique historic opportunity to build an economically viable, democratic, and just society. Deepening Political Reforms and Democratisation 74. Ethiopia’s destiny lies in a democratic route to development. Not only is democracy critical for Ethiopia but it is also the sole guarantee for the survival of this multi-national, multi-religious, and multi-cultural nation/state. However, after observed progress towards democratisation, there is growing concern that the country’s political environment has deteriorated in recent years. 75. Although the Ethiopian people have demonstrated a penchant for political participation, there is a tremendous deficit in political engagement by key actors. Relations are somewhat tense between the opposition and ruling party in Ethiopia. Ahead of the general elections in 2010, there were escalating tensions between the long-entrenched ruling party and the opposition. Ethiopians, in large measure, need to transcend the historical psyche of vindictive politics, confrontation, and divisive action. The path to democracy and good governance is non-linear but bumpy. A culture of constructive engagement and dialogue needs to be cultivated to reconcile differences amongst politicians, and also vis à vis the larger Ethiopian society. 76. The challenge for Ethiopia as it aspires to the status of a democratic developmental state is to consolidate recent gains in its governance system. Promoting Human Security 77. As already narrated, the history of Ethiopia is replete with wars and acts of violence. Moreover, contrary to the common portrayal of the country as having to constantly defend itself against external aggression, most of the wars were internal in their genesis and impact. - 59 -