Jerusalem Post opinion: why not an Ethiopian-Israeli PM, president, or chief rabbi?

Important note: this is an opinion piece

This summary covers an opinion piece (Op-Ed) published in the Jerusalem Post — not a news report. The views expressed are the author's, Shmuel Legesse, not a position taken by Tedros.

The central argument

Legesse argues that Ethiopian-Israelis possess the capabilities and qualifications for the country's most senior leadership positions, yet remain systematically excluded from them. He argues that institutions and media frame the community mainly through narratives of immigration, discrimination and poverty, rather than achievement and leadership.

The examples he cites

• Rabbi Reuven Wabashat — a descendant of Ethiopian Jewish spiritual leaders, who immigrated in 1972, served as an IDF officer, and became a respected Torah scholar and halachic authority. Legesse asks why his scholarly credentials "limit" him to serving Ethiopian congregations specifically.
• Fentay Mehret-Almo — born in Gondar in 1984, survived a dangerous journey through Sudan, accumulated 15 years of private-sector experience (including at Rafael), and served as a diplomat representing Israel across multiple countries and continents.

The key quote

> "An Ethiopian-Israeli should be able to become the prime minister, the president, or the chief rabbi" — without needing to ask why not.

Legesse argues leadership should stem from "knowledge, character, preparation, service, and vision" — criteria he says Ethiopian-Israelis already meet.

Source

• Jerusalem Post — opinion, Aug 16, 2026