My Proposal to Dr. Abiy: Foster Intra-Ethnic Democracy and Inter-Ethnic Authoritarianism
By Fayyis Oromia*
Dr. Abiy initially received triangular support from Ethiopia’s three major ethnic groups: the Amhara, Tigrayans (Tegaru), and Oromo. The Amhara elites believed they could manipulate him to maintain the longstanding dominance of Amharic culture and politics, much like they did with Mengistu Haile Mariam. So far, they have been relatively successful. The Tigrayan elites, in contrast, hoped to use him as a puppet, as they did with Hailemariam Desalegn. They miscalculated and failed miserably. Oromo nationalists expected Dr. Abiy, as an Oromo himself, to address their national concerns. However, he disappointed many by choosing to appease the Amhara elite and cracking down on genuine Oromo nationalism.
Now, as the Amhara elite seeks to seize power from him, Dr. Abiy appears to be returning to his Oromo base. Better late than never. We should welcome him back. Personally, I propose that he strengthen intra-ethnic democracy among the Oromo and implement inter-ethnic authoritarianism to counteract the manipulative tactics of Abyssinian elites. He must not be so naïve as to allow these forces a path back to power in Finfinné (Addis Ababa), as their primary objective would be the irreversible destruction of Oromummà (Oromo identity). Their active resistance to Oromummà is testament to this intent.
Read more: https://orompia.wordpress.com/2023/03/1 ... tatorship/
Re: My Proposal to Dr. Abiy: Foster Intra-Ethnic Democracy and Inter-Ethnic Authoritarianism
Politics in Ethiopia is marked by rivalry between ethnic groups and ideological factions within those groups. The primary contenders for power in Finfinné have long been the Amhara, Tigrayans, and Oromo. In practice, there exists no democratic mechanism for the peaceful transfer of power between ethnic factions. Historically, only force or authoritarian control has enabled such transitions. This is why both the Amhara-led Derg and the Tigrayan-dominated Woyane relied on brutal measures to rule over the Oromo and other groups.