Agaw-Oromo Alliance in the Future: A Vision for a Wonderful Cushitic Ethiopia
By Fayyis Oromia*
For the stability and prosperity of future Cushitic Ethiopia, we need an Agaw-Oromo Alliance (AOA). As preparation for such an alliance, the converted Agaw in Gojjam, Lalibela, and Gondar—who now identify as Amhara—should return to their original identity: Agaw.
Historical and Linguistic Context
There are different versions of Ethiopian history. I personally accept the perspective that almost all Ethiopians are of Cushitic origin. Especially, the so-called Ethio-Semitic groups are offshoots of the original Cushitic peoples like the Agaw and Oromo. Most Tigrayans, Gondarians, and Gojjames are of Agaw origin. Almost all Wolloyes and Shoans are “lost Oromos.”
The Oromo national struggle should focus on helping these lost Agaws and Oromos reconnect with their true, original identities. The best method is to promote Agawigna and Oromiffa at the federal level. The regions that have lost their identity should begin to learn their original languages. The lost Agaws in Tigray, Gojjam, and Gondar need to learn Agawigna. The lost Oromos of Raya, Shoa, and Wollo need to learn Oromiffa. These two major languages should become leading working languages in federal institutions such as Parliament, the Palace, the Cabinet, the courts, the military, and security services.
On Power and Division: From Derg to Biltsigina
It is clear that the dictatorial regime of Biltsigina is employing a “divide and rule” strategy among the Amhara, Tigrayans, and Oromo—just as the Derg and Woyane did. Some Amhara elites supported the Derg, certain Tigrayan elites owned Woyane, and a few Oromo elites are now supporting Biltsigina, making it appear as if the Derg was Amhara-led, Woyane Tigrayan-led, and Biltsigina Oromo-led.
In reality, all three regimes are authoritarian, merely hiding behind the identities of the nations they exploit to consolidate power. They intentionally created divisions among the three by favoring elites from one group at the expense of the others.
Given this historical pattern, can the three peoples now cooperate to remove the current Biltsigina regime and bring about a genuine democratic transition in Ethiopia—where all nations coexist in peace, respecting each other’s national rights? I suggest that the OLA, TDF, and genuine Amhara nationalists explore the possibility of an A-T-O Alliance (Amhara-Tigray-Oromo) against Biltsigina.
On Biltsigina and Political Strategy
As expected, the Derg favored Amhara elites, Woyane empowered Tigray elites, and Biltsigina is now trying to instrumentalize certain Oromo elites to rule dictatorially. None of these regimes genuinely represented their respective peoples.
Some Oromo nationalists are concerned that the return of Amhara “naftagna” (Menelikite) elites to power in Finfinne is possible after the likely defeat of the “Meshreftites” (pro-Amaranet elites) by the Melesites. This scenario, however, is unlikely. The Menelikites might push further militarily—even against Eritrea—which is not in Isayas Afwerki’s interest. Thus, they may only be used temporarily due to their strong anti-Melesite sentiments. After the conflict, both groups—Menelikites and Melesites—will be politically irrelevant.
Then, the Oromo national movement must focus on defeating the Meshreftites—those Oromo elites who maintain Amhara dominance. This internal enemy is perhaps the most dangerous for Oromummaa. Pro-Oromummaa Elites (POE)—Oromo republicans—must prioritize this battle.
On Cyber Warfare and Propaganda
Biltsigina cadres are very active online. They engage in propaganda, often using divisive language around topics like “ethnic federalism.” We frequently see them posing as different groups—pro-conservative Amharas, liberal Amharas, Eritreans, or Oromos—yet very few are genuine. Their mission is clear: sow division among Amhara and Oromo factions and between Oromo groups themselves.
They do this by pretending to be:
- Pro-unity Amharas who label Oromo forces as “separatists.”
- Pro-federalist Tigrayans who accuse the OLF of being anti-federalist.
- Supporters of the OLF who attack its leadership.
- Pro-union Oromos who call OLF leaders “secessionists.”
- Pro-independence critics who label liberation movements as “traitors.”
These tactics aim to weaken Oromo political cohesion. Oromo participants who unknowingly join this cyber division must reflect on their actions. Constructive criticism should happen in strategic forums, not in cyberspace where it serves enemy interests.
On Strategy for Oromo Political Goals
The Oromo movement includes two strategic wings:
One strives for full freedom and independence for Oromia, with or without a regional union.
The other seeks freedom from cultural, economic, and political domination but advocates for a united Cushitic Ethiopia (from Meroë to Mombasa), believing the people in this region share common roots.
The second strategy is gaining ground and resonates with some OLF leadership. This vision is also palatable to Habesha elites, who value unity. For them, Oromo’s Ethiopia—“land of Cush”—is larger than the current Ethiopian state. It includes Nubia, Somalia, Eritrea, Djibouti, and parts of Kenya. Those advocating this path have formed alliances like PAFD and MEDREK, which seek to unite nations in the region under a democratic and multinational framework.
Conclusion: The Way Forward
Some Oromo still swing between these two goals—independence versus unity with freedom. But Oromos should not focus on compromise. We must pursue our optimal end: freedom and sovereignty for Oromia within or without a broader union. The “compromise solution”—freedom under continued Abyssinian dominance—is only acceptable if our ideal is unattainable.
Let Biltsigina cadres continue their divisive tactics—they’re increasingly exposed. Oromo elites must unite around a shared vision, foster alliances with Agaw and Tigrayans, and work toward either a genuine union of free peoples (Oropia) or an independent Oromia. Either path begins by removing Biltsigina.
Galatooma!
Read more:https://orompia.wordpress.com/2023/04/2 ... -ethiopia/