Confepianist Jawar, Oromianist Tsegaye, and Orompianist Shimelis Against Oropianist Abiy?
By Fayyis Oropia*
It is argued that the pro-Amharic forces—including Amapianists (who advocate an Amharic-dominated geo-federation), Amarpianists (who support an Amharic-dominated ethnic federation), and Amharianists (who envision an independent Amharia with Addis Ababa as its capital)—are fundamentally opposed to Oromo political aspirations.
Confepianists (who advocate an English-speaking confederation of free nations), such as Jawar Mohammed, appear to occupy a middle-ground position between the pro-Amharic and pro-Oromic political camps. It also appears that, at present, Jawar Mohammed is seeking to cooperate with Oromianists, such as Tsegaye Ararssa, and Orompianists (who advocate an Oromic-led ethnic federation), such as Shimelis Abdisa, in order to challenge what some characterize as the Oropianist (advocating an Oromic-led geo-federation) agenda of Abiy Ahmed.
Despite this conflict in the pro-Oromic bloc , the recent negotiations between Dr. Abiy of the OPP and General Marro of the OLA regarding the Oromo issue present a hopeful moment for the future of the Oromo people. It is essential that both leaders reach a consensus on the ultimate goal of the Oromo—referred to as kàyyô—which aims to secure the creation of Oromia, Orompia, or Oropia.
The primary focus should be on establishing Oropia—a geo-federation of Ethiopia led by the values of Oromumma. Oropia represents a comprehensive national union, shaped by Oromo principles. It can be likened to the concept of a gross salary—an inclusive entity in which Oromia serves as the net salary. While the independent status of Oromia remains a valid and strategic objective, it should be considered a secondary aim.
Historically, the Oromo have articulated a broad array of visions for the future: from advocating for an independent Oromia, to calling for a true ethnic federation, to proposing a renaming of Ethiopia, changing the flag, and democratizing the country. Today, however, the Oromo’s primary objectives are clear:
- Reclaiming Oromo àngô (power) at the Finfinné Palace, and
- Promoting Oromic as the federal working language of Ethiopia.
The Oromo must regain political power from the entrenched Neo-Naftagna elite and establish Oromic as the principal working language of the Ethiopian federation. These two goals should be prioritized above all other concerns.
The Role of the Ethiopian Constitution
The Ethiopian Constitution must be amended to elevate Oromic to the status of the primary working language of the federation, replacing Amharic. If this shift occurs, all federal institutions—including the parliament, government, military, security forces, and judiciary—would conduct their affairs primarily in Oromic. In such a scenario, many longstanding Oromo aspirations would be fulfilled, as Ethiopia, led by an Oromo linguistic and cultural framework, would effectively become Oropia.
This vision can be realized as the Oromo celebrate Irréchà in Finfinné. During this time, the Oromo and other Cushitic peoples express gratitude to Wàqa (God) for past victories and humbly request His assistance in their ongoing struggle against subjugation, oppression, and tyranny.
Irréchà: A Celebration of Unity and Resilience
Irréchà is not merely a religious observance, but a celebration of the Oromo’s resilience and unity. It is a time of thanksgiving for past achievements and a moment to seek divine strength for the future. The Oromo refer to God as their “Father”—a relationship that fosters confidence and trust, not begging. Just as children approach their human fathers with certainty, the Oromo approach Wàqa with gratitude and bold requests.
The celebration of Irréchà has its roots in the story of Ora’s resurrection under the Odà tree, a symbol of renewal and reconciliation. The Odà tree planted by Atété signifies the resurrection of Ora, who emerged from death to reconcile with his brother and murderer, Sete. This symbol of resurrection is central to the Oromo’s spiritual identity and is mirrored in the traditions of other Cushitic nations. While the Odà tree has evolved into symbols like the Axum Obelisk and the temporary Demera fires, the essence of Irréchà—the triumph of life over death—remains unchanged.
The Continuing Struggle for the Rights of the Oppressed
The Oromo’s historical victories in the struggle against oppression include:
- “Land to the tiller” – The 1974 revolution led by Oromo nationalists and other revolutionary groups.
- “Self-rule of nations” – The 1991 victory that established a federal system under the leadership of the OLF (Oromo Liberation Front) and allied movements.
Unfortunately, these victories were subverted—the first by the Derg’s military dictatorship, and the second by the ethno-fascist TPLF regime. Under the current Biltsigina regime, these gains remain symbolic. Land is still controlled by the government, not the tillers, and self-rule is restricted, with national regions effectively under colonial-style domination.
Despite these setbacks, the goal should not be to reverse these achievements but to fulfill them. The path forward is clear: the realization of these historic victories, not their abandonment. Attempts to restore land to feudal elites or fragment national regions under the guise of “geographic federalism” must be resisted.
The Political Divide: A Call for Unity
At the heart of the political struggle lies the contest between forces aiming to preserve the historic gains of 1974 and 1991 and those seeking to reverse them. The current division between Oromo forces and Amhara-oriented factions hinders the creation of a unified front against the Biltsigina regime.
Two primary threats to the regime today are:
- A potential Oromo-Amhara alliance.
- The possibility of collaboration with Eritrea.
The Biltsigina regime seeks to prevent such an alliance by fostering mutual mistrust between Oromo nationalists and Amhara elites. Tragically, this division serves to prolong the regime’s rule, as both sides remain ensnared in a cycle of suspicion and misunderstanding.
The key question now is: Can both Ethiopia and Oromia be saved? Amhara forces often frame their struggle as one to preserve Ethiopia, but their true intent is to maintain control by suppressing Oromumma. On the other hand, Oromo nationalists primarily focus on liberating Oromia, often overlooking the potential benefits of regional integration within Ethiopia or a broader Horn of Africa union.
This political dilemma is akin to the classic medical challenge of whether to save the mother or the child. In contemporary politics, it is possible to save both—through inclusive solutions that honor the rights and aspirations of all nations within Ethiopia.
Moderate forces within the Amhara community, who seek a solution that benefits both Ethiopia and Oromia, are increasingly aligning with Oromo democratic federalists. Their goal is to form a common ground for a broad-based coalition to oppose the current regime. This coalition can take one of three forms:
- True ethnic federation—a union of autonomous nations.
- Confederation—a union of sovereign nations within Ethiopia or the broader Horn region.
- Referendum—allowing the people to decide among the available options.
The Need for a Strategic Coalition
To prevent the formation of such a coalition, the EPP (Ethiopian People’s Party) regime actively promotes the idea of an independent Oromia in Oromo forums and a unitary Ethiopia in Amhara-oriented platforms. This two-faced strategy is designed to deepen the divide between the two peoples, ensuring that no effective alliance can form against the regime.
It is crucial for Oromo nationalists to distinguish between two groups promoting “independent Oromia”:
- True ultra-left Oromo nationalists, who seek independence but also support unity with other oppressed peoples in the struggle against colonization.
- EPP cadres in disguise, who masquerade as proponents of independence to sow division and obstruct unity.
Oromo nationalists must avoid falling into the trap of serving the interests of the Biltsigina regime, whose primary objective is to maintain division and dominance. Meanwhile, forces within the Amhara elite must recognize that the struggle for a unitary Ethiopia is over. They must embrace the principles of ethnic federalism or confederation if they wish to preserve a united Ethiopia in a way that respects the rights of all its peoples.
The Future of Ethiopia: A Shared Struggle for Liberation
The political evolution of Amhara forces in the past two decades demonstrates a growing understanding of the realities of national domination and marginalization. However, the full integration of Amhara elites into an inclusive, democratic Ethiopian federation will require them to accept the framework of ethnic federalism.
Before 2000, Amhara elites rallied behind the ideology of a unitary Ethiopia, rejecting the rights of nations to have autonomous regions. Over time, however, they began supporting democratic federalism, advocating for a public vote to choose between ethnic and geographic federalism. Today, many have accepted the principles of ethnic federalism, acknowledging that the only way forward is through cooperation with Oromo and other oppressed peoples.
Yet, even now, no prominent Amhara group has openly supported a confederation of independent nations, as proposed by Oromo liberation forces. This support may emerge when Amhara elites recognize that their own political future lies not in preserving an imperial Ethiopia but in liberating Amaraland from the Biltsigina regime.
Conclusion: A Path to Unity and Renewal
As we approach Irréchà, let us reflect on its twin meanings: gratitude for past victories and a renewed commitment to the liberation struggle. Let us unite in the spirit of Irréchà—coming together as oppressed peoples and rejecting division. Through this unity, we can overcome the Biltsigina regime and build a future where both Ethiopia and Oromia can thrive together.
May Wàqa bless us all, and may our ongoing struggle for justice, freedom, and equality be guided by the principles of unity, inclusivity, and mutual respect.
Happy Irréchà to all Cushitic nations who celebrate it, regardless of the form it takes—whether under Odà trees, beside stone monuments, or around Demera fires. Together, we celebrate the triumph of light over darkness, of life over death, and of new beginnings after struggle.
Galatôma
Read more: https://orompia.wordpress.com/2023/04/2 ... or-oromia/