Dr. Léncô Suggests Oromo Consensus on Either Upward Hömogenization (Democratic Oropia) or Downward Hömogenization (Republic Oromia)
By Fayyis Oromia*
Dr. Léncô Latà recently explained why Amhara unitarists—who advocate for a regression to an Amharanized unitary Ethiopia—and Oromo independists—who aim to establish an independent Republic of Oromia—are ideologically similar. He argues that both groups desire a [deleted] state. The difference lies in their approach: Amhara elites push for upward [deleted] of the entire Ethiopian state with an Amharan identity, whereas Oromo elites advocate for downward [deleted] of Oromia with an Oromummaa identity.
However, Dr. Léncô seems to overlook two critical possibilities: Oromo-led upward [deleted] of Ethiopia and the potential downward [deleted] of the Amhara region. The reality on the ground is that Ethiopia, with Afaan Oromo as its primary federal working language, is gradually transforming into Oropia—an Ethiopia led by Oromummaa. This transformation, though slow, appears irreversible.
In his recent interviews, Dr. Léncô emphasized the importance of Oromo consensus around one of two already well-known strategic goals: either the Democratic Oropia championed by the OFC (representing upward [deleted]) or the Republic of Oromia supported by the OLF (reflecting downward [deleted]). He suggests that if Oromo elites unite behind one of these visions, they could present a unified voice at the upcoming national dialogue in Ethiopia.
Can Oromo elites reach this consensus? Or should the choice be left for a post-liberation referendum on the two types of sovereignty? Personally, I believe a consensus on Democratic Oropia (upward [deleted]) would be more beneficial than opting for Republic Oromia (downward [deleted]). A democratized Ethiopia, adopting a modern Gadaa system with Afaan Oromo as the primary federal working language, would become a de facto Oropia—an entity larger and more influential than Oromia alone. I hope all Oromo elites heed the noble call and vision of Dr. Léncô.
In my previous writings and opinions, I have tried to contribute to the advancement of the Oromo national liberation movement. I have done so out of a deep sense of obligation, without influence from any individual, organization, or institution. Today, I am heartened to see the beginnings of consolidation within the Oromo movement—a movement towards unity for freedom and sovereignty.
I believe we now have sufficient ideas and theoretical clarity, but what we lack is practical implementation. I hope that Waaqa grants us the strength to bring our vision to life.
On the Current Political Landscape
The theme I wish to discuss remains somewhat unclear among our political community. I was recently inspired by an interview discussing ongoing conversations among factions of our liberation front about potential reunification. According to the interviewer, these discussions are still in progress—a promising development for those who seek a strong and unified OLF.
One of the interview’s key takeaways was the existence of “goal differences” among Oromo political actors. But the question remains: Do we truly have different goals, or are we simply experiencing a lack of clarity in articulating our shared objective?
We may hold varying perspectives on our history—due in part to the differing narratives we’ve been exposed to—but we must reach a consensus on our path to liberation.
My Interpretation of Our Goal
Over the years, I have consistently written that our common goal is the freedom of the Oromo people and the sovereignty of Oromia. This includes:
- A sovereign Oromo state within a potential United States of Africa,
- The right to self-determination through referendum,
- Oromia’s autonomy within Ethiopia as a mid-goal,
- And full independence as the end-goal.
Is this not clear enough?
I hope those Oromo elites who speak on these concepts understand their true meaning and recognize that we share a unified vision. I’m simply reiterating what I’ve long emphasized, in the hope that it aids ongoing discussions.
The Four Political Currents in Oromo Polity
Currently, Oromo political engagement is concentrated in four primary currents:
- OPP (Ruling Party): Claims that Oromo liberation has already been achieved.
- Ezema: Ignores the existence of Oromia, advocating democracy for Ethiopia as a whole.
- OFC: Advocates for Oromia’s autonomy within Ethiopia.
- OLF and its factions: Fight for full independence of Oromia, with or without union with other free nations, via referendum.
Each group represents different stations on the journey toward liberation. From maintaining the status quo (OPP), we can move to the OFC’s vision, and eventually to our final goal.
Self-determination is a process, with multiple phases: from autonomy, to referendum, to the final decision between national independence or union. Debating the final outcome prematurely is counterproductive. That debate belongs afterwe secure liberty and the right to referendum.
On Oromo Unity and the Role of Elites
There is no inherent conflict between Oromo democratic federalists and Oromo liberation fronts. The federalists seem to have found common ground; the liberation fronts are still working towards it. The ultimate shared goal is:
- Oromo people’s freedom
- Oromia’s independence
- Self-governance through referendum
Attempts to create division—such as framing the goals as “Oropian democratization vs Oromian liberation”—only serve our enemies. In reality, Ethiopian democratization is a powerful means to achieve Oromian liberation.
On Fragmentation and External Influence
The twin enemies of Oromo self-determination are:
- Biltsigina (PP): Aggressively undermines opposition.
- Conservative Unitarists: Weakened but ideologically committed to domination.
Their recent alliance is a serious threat. Biltsigina has polarized Amhara forces and fragmented the OLF. The rise of over 90 fragmented parties is not a sign of democracy, but of deliberate division. Some media actors and self-proclaimed analysts play into this disintegration, whether intentionally or not.
We must commend previous moves toward unity, such as the merger of OFDM and OPC to form the OFC. We also await the long-overdue reunification of the OLF factions, essential for diplomatic legitimacy, political clout, and military effectiveness.
Strategic Way Forward
- Genuine Oromo politicians in OPP can help protect the current gains.
- OFC can continue the legal-political struggle for autonomy.
- A unified OLF must lead the armed push for sovereignty.
These three approaches—if synchronized—can carry us toward our goal, each offering a different path to a referendum-based outcome.
Even though both armed resistance and Ethiopian democratization are difficult, a hybrid strategy—guided by strategic wisdom—is essential.
Final Thoughts
The Oromo are a nation of immense resilience and value. We have achieved a great deal despite overwhelming challenges: a hostile state backed by powerful Western interests, no reliable sanctuary, and even resistance within Oromia itself.
Those who focus only on past failures miss the bigger picture and risk becoming tools of either deliberate misinformation or harmful naivety. Magnifying mistakes without acknowledging context or achievement only serves to demoralize rather than inspire.
We must deepen Oromo unity, build coalitions with other oppressed groups, and ally tactically with pro-democracy forces against the anti-freedom alliance of the two Nefxenyas. Our goal is clear. Let our political clarity and strategic unity match our moral conviction.
May Waaqa guide and strengthen us.
Galatoomaa!
Read more:https://orompia.wordpress.com/2023/04/1 ... ic-oromia/