Role Exchange: Amhara Elites for Independent Amharia, and Oromo Elites for Integrated Ethiopia?
By Fayyis Oromia*
I encouraged Oromo elites to struggle for the politics of majority rule—i.e., owning and transforming Ethiopia into “Oropia” (an Oromic-led country)—rather than fighting as a minority nationality solely for an independent Oromia. Now, it seems there is an emerging consensus among Oromo nationalists to democratize the existing federation. Oromos are seeking their legitimate share (approximately 60%) in all spheres of the federation’s life. However, this demand is interpreted by the historically dominant Amhara elites as Oromo domination in return—what they call teregninet (reciprocal domination).
In reality, the Oromo occupying up to 60% of all businesses and federal institutions would represent a legitimate share, not undue domination. Currently, however, the Oromo hold only about 16% of key positions, a figure that must be gradually adjusted toward proportional representation. Observing this trend, Amhara elites—who constitute around 10% of the population—are now contemplating an independent “Amharia” in response to a future Ethiopia based on genuinely shared governance. I had anticipated such a role exchange between Amhara and Oromo elites, and it’s interesting to see it materializing.
Read more: https://orompia.wordpress.com/2018/11/1 ... y-dr-abiy/