Ethiopia expels Italian Ambassador Sem Fabrizi

The Italian ambassador to Ethiopia, Sem Fabrizi, has reportedly been declared ‘persona non grata’ by the Ethiopian government, leading to his departure from Addis Ababa after ten months in the role.

Reports suggest the expulsion may have resulted from Fabrizi’s strict enforcement of embassy protocols. These measures included tighter controls on visa issuances and more rigorous oversight of trade authorizations, specifically regarding arms and goods. Some sources claim his efforts to curb smuggling—allegedly involving items like spare parts, food, and weapons destined for associates of the Ethiopian leadership—caused friction with government officials.

While some reports indicate an expulsion, the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has provided conflicting accounts, with some officials suggesting the return was a coordinated move for personal reasons. The situation has raised questions regarding the principle of diplomatic reciprocity, as the Ethiopian ambassador in Rome remains in his position.