Alemayehu Atomsa

Alemayehu Atomsa (1969 – 6 March 2014) was an Ethiopian politician who served as the President of the Oromia Region, one of the Ethiopian federal states, from 2010 until his resignation in 2014 due to health issues. Before becoming president, Atomsa was a member of the Oromo People's Democratic Organization (OPDO), which is part of the Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF), a coalition that ruled Ethiopia for several decades.

Atomsa was born in the Oromia Region, and he pursued higher education, earning a degree in law. His career in public service began in the education sector, where he worked as a teacher and later held various administrative positions within the regional education department. His involvement in politics deepened through his roles within the OPDO, where he held several key positions, including being a member of the party's executive committee.

As President of the Oromia Region, Atomsa focused on various developmental projects aimed at improving the living standards of the Oromo people. He advocated for better education, infrastructure development, and health services. His tenure, however, was also marked by criticisms and controversies, including allegations of human rights abuses and suppression of political dissent within the region.

Alemayehu Atomsa's health began to deteriorate in 2012, and after several trips abroad for medical treatment, he officially resigned from his position in 2014. He passed away on 6 March 2014, and his death was mourned by many, including his political allies and the wider Oromo community. His legacy is viewed with mixed feelings; while some praise his efforts to develop the Oromia Region and advocate for the rights of the Oromo people, others criticize his administration for its approach to handling political opposition and freedom of expression.

Following his death, the OPDO and the EPRDF expressed their condolences and highlighted his contributions to the region's development and the party's efforts. The government of Ethiopia also recognized his service, and he was given a state funeral attended by high-ranking officials and citizens. Template:Ethiopia-bio-stub