Haile Selassie I: Responsibility and Principles

Haile Selassie I, also known as Ras Tafari Makonnen, was the Emperor of Ethiopia from 1930 to 1974. He is considered a symbol of resistance against colonialism and oppression and is often referred to as “The King of Kings” and “The Conquering Lion of the Tribe of Judah.” He was a firm believer in the values of being principled and responsible, however, his rule was also marked by authoritarianism and repression of political opposition, which led to him being a controversial figure.

Haile Selassie I was known for his strong moral principles, which he believed were essential for the betterment of society. He upheld the values of integrity, honesty, and fairness, and he encouraged others to do the same. He believed that in order for Ethiopia to progress, individuals and leaders needed to be held accountable for their actions, and that ethical principles were essential for the development of the nation.

He also believed in being responsible. As a leader, Haile Selassie I took responsibility for the well-being of his people. He worked tirelessly to improve their lives, and he was committed to ensuring that the country was developed in a sustainable way that would benefit future generations. He also encouraged other leaders to take responsibility for their actions and to work towards the common good.

However, Haile Selassie I’s rule was also marked by authoritarianism and repression of political opposition. He maintained strict control over the media and suppressed dissent through censorship and the use of the secret police. He also faced criticism for his handling of the Ethiopian famine of the 1970s, which resulted in the deaths of hundreds of thousands of people. Additionally, his rule was marked by widespread poverty, economic stagnation, and human rights abuses.

His rule was also associated with the cult of personality and the Rastafarian movement, which emerged in Jamaica in the 1930s, and saw him as a messianic figure, the return of the biblical King of Kings, and the redeemer of the African diaspora. While this adulation by the Rastafarian movement helped to solidify his image as a symbol of resistance against colonialism and oppression, it also led to criticism that he was more concerned with promoting his own image than addressing the needs of his people. Contrarily, Selassie I was a devout Christian and never attested to the claims that he was the second coming.

In summary, Haile Selassie I’s reign as Emperor of Ethiopia was marked by his strong belief in the importance of morality, integrity and personal responsibility. He took steps to improve the lives of his citizens and promote the development and sovereignty of the nation. However, his rule was also characterized by authoritarianism, suppression of dissent and human rights abuses, which have led to a controversial perception of his legacy. Despite these criticisms, his image as a symbol of resistance against colonialism and oppression, and his efforts to promote education and sustainable development, will always be remembered. Overall, his rule was a complex mixture of progressive and regressive actions.