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Spirit of Africa
We have just returned from the Accra meeting of the
Heads of African States and governments, where fresh evidence was adduced
that the spirit of Africa grows steadily more powerful and all -, pervasive,
and that Africans shall continue to march together, in unity and oneness,
into the promise of the future.
At Accra, resolutions were adopted which are of
signal importance to every African country.
We would refer, in particular, to the resolution
which pledges each nation on this continent to oppose subversive activities,
to refrain from the conduct of any hostile propaganda campaign directed
against another African state, and to resort to negotiations for the
settlement of disputes between member states.
These undertakings, if they are implemented in
good faith, should go far to remove many of the causes of friction which
have from time to time impaired intra-African relations in the past,
and further strengthen the African Unity Charter.
Each must contribute
Let there be no mistake : in modern Ethiopia, each man
must contribute.
There is no protection from the demand that a man's worth be assessed
by his achievements. Education and learning offer no escape from the
obligation of toil, for the good of the nation with littlethought of
self, to them will much be given, even to the governing of the land.
Nor should anyone today mistakenly believe that only in the ciries can
he serve his country.
The greater need today is among the peopme, with those who work the
soil, who provide the nourishment and sustenance upon which Ethiopia
feeds.
The University National Service Programme has pointed the way. Today's
younger generation must maintain their ties with the people who are
the bulk and the backbone of the nation.
The problem of the many must become the problem of the few, for only
in this way can the progress we earn be lasting and real and of benefit
to all.
This very institution of Parliament is itself a striking
example of the reshaping and moulding of custom and tradition which
has at every step marked Ethiopia's development over the years. To serve
in these Chambers, a man must possess high ability and demonstrated
talents.
Indeed, you Deputies must, in addition, have persuaded your constituents
that you dispose of these qualities in abundance, for you owe your claim
to sit in this deliberative assembly to their votes, cast in free and
open elections.
In the months ahead, much will be asked of you. You
will be called upon to consider diverse and complex legislation, proposals
prepared by experts after long and painstaking efforts, enactments vital
to the life and growth of the nation. Study them carefully and dispassionately
; seek further information when it is necessary ; act not from personal
interest or emotional involvement but objectively, as representatives
of a united nation and people, with the public welfare your constant
concern.
Extract from the Thronespeech
held by His Imperial Majesty Emperor Haile Selassie 1st
17 November 1965
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