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Isayayas AfeforkPresident of Eritrea
Country:
 Eritrea |
Content:
- Early Life and Education
- Involvement in the Eritrean Independence Movement
- Founding the Eritrean People's Liberation Front (EPLF)
- Rise to Power
- Presidency
- Conflicts and Controversies
- Personal Life
Early Life and Education
Isaias Afwerki was born in 1945 in Asmara, Eritrea. In the mid-1960s, he enrolled at Addis Ababa University's engineering faculty.
Involvement in the Eritrean Independence Movement
In 1966, Afwerki joined the Eritrean Liberation Front (ELF) and received military training in China. He became the ELF's commander-in-chief in 1969.
Founding the Eritrean People's Liberation Front (EPLF)
In 1970, after a split within the ELF, Afwerki helped establish the EPLF. He served as the EPLF's general secretary from 1987 to 1994 and its military commander.
Rise to Power
From 1991 to 1993, Afwerki was the general secretary of the Eritrean provisional government and chairman of the State Council. On May 19, 1993, he was elected president of Eritrea by parliament.
Presidency
Afwerki has been the president of Eritrea since 1993. He is also the head of government and the chairman of the ruling party, the People's Front for Democracy and Justice (PFDJ).
Conflicts and Controversies
Afwerki is known for his aggressive leadership style. During his presidency, Eritrea has engaged in conflicts with its neighbors, most notably a bloody two-year war with Ethiopia.
