Prof Kassahun Berhanu, Renowned Political Scientist, Dies

ADDIS ABABA – Kassahun Berhanu, renowned political scientist and longtime professor at Addis Ababa University(AAU), passed away on Tuesday.

Kassahun served at the AAU as Professor of political science and international relations for the last 36 years. He was also a member of the Administrative Boundary and Identity Affairs Commission of the Government.

Prof Kassahun did various researches on issues mainly relating to democracy, civil society, decentralization and governance in Ethiopia, as well as conflicts, elections and constitution making in Africa.

In a statement on Tuesday afternoon, AAU said the professor passed away today in Addis Ababa after a battle with an unspecified illness.

Great Mentor

On the same day, Ethiopia’s Foreign Ministry expressed its condolences on the passing away of Professor Kassahun who participated in the training of Ethiopian diplomats on pertinent foreign policy issues.

He also reportedly engaged in the recent revision of the country’s foreign policy.

“Professor Kassahun was a great mentor to many Ethiopian diplomats and a member of the Foreign Relations Advisory Council of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs,” said the Ministry in a statement today.

“The ministry and its staff wish consolations to the family and friends of the deceased,” it said. “May his soul rest in peace.”

His funeral will take place at Yeka Michael Church on Wednesday afternoon with his family, friends and colleagues in attendance, it added.