PM Meles in ‘good health’, will be back ‘soon’

Addis Ababa, July 19 (WIC) – Prime Minister Meles Zenawi is in good health and will be back to his official duties soon, Government Communications Affairs Office (GCAO) said.

In a press briefing to local journalists, Bereket Simon, Minister of GCAO, snubbed the numerous speculations regarding the Prime Minister’s health.

“Recently the Prime Minister had encountered a health problem, but now he is in a very good condition after receiving the necessary medical care,” Bereket said.

Bereket said the Prime Minister is advised by his doctors to take a break from his duties.

“The Prime Minister has been discharging pressing national and governmental duties for a long time without a break” Bereket said. “At this moment he is taking a break and he will be back to his official duties soon,” he said without giving specific date.

Bereket also declined to specify the PM’s illness for ‘medical secrecy’ reasons. “This remains between the Prime Minister and his doctors, we should respect that,” Bereket said.

The wild speculations on the Prime Ministers’ health conditions was also taken up by major international media sparking fears and questions among many. But the government chose to refrain from providing immediate response.

“This could be partly because of communication philosophy,” Bereket said. “It is also difficult to chase down speculations.”

He also downplayed issues of power vacuum or struggle within the government.

“The priority within the government is achieving the targets set within the GTP,” Bereket explained. “Although the Prime Minister’s presence adds value there is no major power vacuum or failure in the discharge of government duties.”

The Minister also addressed host of issues including Ethiopian Muslims, employment.

Watch the full press conference on Current Event.