Kassahun Gofe, Ethiopia’s Minister of Trade and Regional Integration, is reportedly in critical condition and receiving intensive care at a private hospital in Addis Ababa following a serious road accident allegedly linked to drunk driving.
According to local media reports, the incident took place late on Sunday night, when the minister was driving home and crashed into a parked excavator near Karl Square, a busy area in the capital. He was reportedly alone in the vehicle at the time of the collision.
Eyewitnesses and first responders who arrived at the scene initially did not recognize the injured man as a senior government official. However, they reportedly observed signs of intoxication. Kassahun was transported to several hospitals before being admitted to the intensive care unit at Ethio-Tebib Hospital, where he has remained for nearly a week.
He is said to have sustained multiple serious injuries, including fractures to his ribs, arms, and legs. Though officials have not publicly commented on the severity of his condition, sources familiar with the matter suggest that plans were being considered to transfer him abroad for specialized medical treatment.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed was reportedly made aware of the incident while attempting to schedule a meeting with Kassahun to discuss issues related to domestic fuel pricing. The incident itself was not made public immediately, and no formal statement has been released by the Ethiopian government or the Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration regarding the minister’s health.
Adem Farah, deputy president of the ruling Prosperity Party, is reported to have visited the minister at the hospital. However, as of now, there has been no official confirmation about whether Kassahun’s injuries are life-threatening.
Kassahun Gofe previously served as State Minister at the Ministry of Transport before being appointed Minister of Trade and Regional Integration in July 2024, during a period of major economic reform in Ethiopia.
Further updates are expected once the government or hospital releases an official statement.
Ethiopian Trade Minister Reportedly in ICU After Drunk Driving Accident
