The Agaw-Oromo Alliance: A Vision for a Prosperous Cushitic Ethiopia
By Fayyis Oromia*
In envisioning a stable and prosperous future for Ethiopia, particularly for its Cushitic peoples, the formation of an Agaw-Oromo Alliance (AOA) is of paramount importance. For this alliance to succeed, it is essential to first address historical identity issues. The Agaw populations in regions such as Gojjam, Lalibela, and Gondar, who have adopted Amhara identities, must reconnect with their original Agaw heritage.
Historical and Linguistic Context
Ethiopian history is interpreted through various lenses, but one perspective I support is that nearly all Ethiopian ethnic groups, including those traditionally classified as Ethio-Semitic, are descendants of the original Cushitic peoples. The Agaw and Oromo, for instance, represent the foundational groups from which many modern Ethiopian communities have evolved. The Tigrayans, Gondarians, and Gojjames are largely of Agaw origin, while many from Wollo and Shoa can be considered “lost Oromos.”
The Oromo national struggle should prioritize the re-establishment of these “lost” identities by promoting the languages and cultures of the Agaw and Oromo people. In practice, this means advocating for Agawigna and Oromic to be recognized as official languages at the federal level, with regions such as Tigray, Gojjam, and Gondar actively teaching and fostering the revival of Agaw culture. Similarly, the Oromo identity of regions like Raya, Shoa, and Wollo should be encouraged through the promotion of the Oromo language, ensuring that these populations can reclaim their historical heritage.
Power and Division: From the Derg to Biltsigina
Historically, Ethiopia has witnessed regimes that used a “divide and rule” strategy to maintain power. The Derg regime favored Amhara elites, the Woyane regime empowered Tigrayan elites, and Biltsigina is now attempting to instrumentalize certain Oromo elites to solidify a dictatorial rule. Despite the appearances of ethnic leadership, these regimes share a common trait: authoritarianism and exploitation of ethnic divisions to maintain control.
The question now is whether the Amhara, Tigrayans, and Oromo can cooperate to dismantle the current regime, Biltsigina, and pave the way for a genuine democratic transition in Ethiopia. This transition must focus on establishing an inclusive state where all nations and peoples coexist peacefully, respecting each other’s rights and identities. One avenue worth exploring is the formation of an Amhara-Tigray-Oromo Alliance (ATO), bringing together key forces such as the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA), Tigray Defense Forces (TDF), and authentic Amhara nationalists to challenge the current authoritarian regime.
Biltsigina and Political Strategy
While the Derg, Woyane, and Biltsigina regimes each appear to represent different ethnic groups—Amhara, Tigray, and Oromo, respectively—none of them genuinely reflect the interests of the people they claim to represent. The current political landscape suggests that after the defeat of the “Meshreftites” (pro-Amaranet elites) by the Melesites, the possibility of a return to power by Amhara “naftagna” elites (associated with Menelik II) is unlikely. Such elites might push further militarily, but their political influence is set to diminish after the current conflict ends.
For the Oromo national movement, the primary focus must now shift towards defeating the “Meshreftites”—those Oromo elites who continue to perpetuate Amharanet dominance. This internal enemy represents a significant obstacle to Oromummaa (Oromo identity and autonomy). Pro-Oromummaa elites (POE), or Oromo republicans, must prioritize this battle to ensure a future where the Oromo people are free from external and internal domination.
Cyber Warfare and Propaganda
Biltsigina operatives are highly active in the digital sphere, using divisive language and propaganda to undermine unity among the Oromo and other ethnic groups. These operatives often disguise themselves as different factions—Amharas, Oromos, and Tigrayans—in order to create rifts and sow discord. Their primary goal is to divide and weaken Oromo political cohesion, using tactics such as:
Posing as pro-unity Amharas while labeling Oromo forces as “separatists.”
Posing as pro-federalist Tigrayans while accusing the OLF (Oromo Liberation Front) of being anti-federalist.
Posing as supporters of the OLF while attacking its leadership.
Posing as pro-independence critics while labeling liberation movements as “traitors.”
Oromo participants in online discourse must be aware of these manipulations and engage in strategic forums where constructive criticism can thrive, rather than allowing the digital space to be weaponized for divisive purposes.
Strategic Directions for Oromo Political Goals
The Oromo movement consists of two primary strategic wings:
- One faction seeks complete independence and freedom for Oromia, potentially outside of any regional union.
- The other faction desires freedom from cultural, economic, and political domination but envisions a united Cushitic Ethiopia, stretching from Meroë to Mombasa, in which peoples share common historical roots.
The latter vision is increasingly resonating with some factions within the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF) and is gaining traction among certain Habesha elites, who value unity. This vision of a Cushitic Ethiopia, often referred to as “Oropia,” would include modern-day Ethiopia, Eritrea, Somalia, Djibouti, and parts of Kenya. Alliances like PAFD and MEDREK have sought to bring together various nations in the region under a democratic, multinational framework.
Conclusion: The Path Forward
While some Oromos still debate between the goals of full independence and unity with freedom, it is essential that the Oromo movement remains focused on its ultimate objective: sovereignty and freedom for Oromia, whether within a broader union or as an independent state. Any compromise that continues under Abyssinian dominance is only acceptable as a last resort, should the ideal vision prove unattainable.
The divisions sown by Biltsigina and its allies are increasingly transparent, and the Oromo elites must unite around a shared vision. This includes forming alliances with the Agaw and Tigrayans, working toward either a genuine union of free peoples in the form of Oropia or an independent Oromia. Both paths begin with the removal of the Biltsigina regime.
Galatôma!
Read more:https://orompia.wordpress.com/2023/04/2 ... -ethiopia/