750 Years of Ideological Conflict in Ethiopia: The Struggle between Authoritarian Amaranet and Egalitarian Oromummà
By Fayyis Oromia*
The evolution of Amhara identity (Amaranet) and the Amharic language is a key aspect of Ethiopian history, tracing its roots back to the reign of Yekuno Amlak in 1270, when he overthrew the Zagwe Dynasty. From this pivotal moment, the Amharic language and Amhara identity expanded rapidly, often to the detriment of the Agaw and Oromo identities. The Amharic-speaking population, under the guise of “Ethiopianism,” began assimilating various ethnic groups, eroding indigenous identities and cultures. However, the Oromo identity (Oromummà) has stood as a continuous and significant challenge to the dominance of Amaranet.
Over time, these ethnic identities have transformed into competing political ideologies. The initial political divisions in Ethiopia, such as those between capitalism and communism under the first Derg regime, and the focus on centralism versus separatism under the second Derg (Woyane), have given way to an even more profound ideological conflict. The current political struggle is now defined by the opposition between Amaranet and Oromummà, which has increasingly become a political tool for various factions seeking to either preserve or dismantle Ethiopia’s current political structure.
Amaranet and Oromummà as Political Ideologies
Amaranet, often presented under the banner of “Ethiopianism,” has historically dominated Ethiopia’s political and cultural discourse. The term “Ethiopianism” has often been employed as a unifying concept, but it has primarily served the purpose of consolidating Amhara dominance over the country. This ideology, which has been largely authoritarian and assimilationist, seeks to undermine the self-administration rights of Ethiopia’s diverse nations and nationalities. It represents a centralizing force that advocates for a [deleted], Amhara-dominated Ethiopia.
In contrast, Oromummà symbolizes an egalitarian and emancipatory ideology that prioritizes self-determination, equitable representation, and the recognition of Ethiopia’s linguistic and cultural diversity. The Oromo struggle for Oromummà has increasingly become a political force in opposition to Amaranet, advocating for a federal Ethiopia that respects the rights and aspirations of all its nations, particularly the Oromo people.
The Rise of Amapianists vs. Oropianists
The ideological struggle between Amaranet and Oromummà has led to the crystallization of two primary political camps in Ethiopia:
- Amapianists: These are pro-Amaranet elites who seek to maintain the status quo, which has historically been defined by Amhara dominance. They argue that Ethiopia should remain a centralized state where Amhara culture and language are dominant. Amapianists often align with conservative, anti-reformist factions like NaMA (National Movement of Amhara) and EZEMA (Ethiopian Citizens for Social Justice), groups that resist democratization and seek to preserve the current political hierarchy.
- Oropianists: These are pro-Oromummà elites who advocate for a federal Ethiopia where the Oromo people are at the center of governance. They support a decentralized, multi-national state in which Oromic (the Oromo language) is given official status, and self-determination is guaranteed for all ethnic groups. Oropianists come from various political organizations, including the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF) and the Oromo Federalist Congress (OFC), which support the ideals of Oromo-led multinational federalism.
Both Amapianists and Oropianists reflect competing visions for Ethiopia’s future. While the former seeks to preserve Amhara dominance under a centralized system, the latter envisions a more inclusive and egalitarian Ethiopia that recognizes the rights and identities of all its peoples.
Historical Context of Amhara-Tigray Power Dynamics
Historically, power struggles between the Amhara and Tigray elites have shaped the political landscape of Ethiopia. Before 1991, Amhara elites held the reins of power, while Tigrayan elites played a subordinate yet influential role. However, following the overthrow of the Derg regime in 1991, Tigrayan elites ascended to political power, while Amhara elites became less influential. Despite the shift in power, both groups have maintained control over the political and economic structures of Ethiopia, often at the expense of marginalized groups, particularly the Oromo.
In the current era, the hegemony of both Amhara and Tigray elites is increasingly being challenged. Even traditionally disenfranchised groups, including impoverished populations from northern Ethiopia, are beginning to align with other marginalized communities to oppose the ruling Ethiopian People’s Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF) and its allies.
The Significance of the Meles-Hailu Handshake
One of the most striking symbols of the ideological entanglement between Amhara and Tigray elites was the infamous handshake between Meles Zenawi, leader of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), and Hailu Shawel, a prominent figure in the Amhara elite. This event shocked many Ethiopians, as it represented an implicit alliance between two former enemies who shared a common goal: suppressing any genuine movement for freedom and democracy, particularly from the Oromo people. The handshake illustrated the extent to which both Amhara and Tigray elites were willing to collaborate to maintain their dominance, even if it meant suppressing the aspirations of the Oromo and other marginalized groups.
For many conservative Amhara elites, the idea of an Oromummà-led Ethiopia is perceived as a greater threat than prolonged Tigrayan rule. Their view seems to be encapsulated in the saying: “Better to be ruled by Tigrayans for 100 years than by Oromos for one day.”
Alliances for Democracy and Freedom
In contrast to the authoritarian forces, there have been significant efforts by democratic and pro-freedom movements to build cross-ethnic alliances. Both Amhara and Oromo democrats have recognized the necessity of collaboration to achieve their common goals of freedom, justice, and autonomy. These alliances have culminated in the formation of several political organizations, such as:
- AFD (Alliance for Freedom and Democracy): A coalition advocating for democratic reform and an inclusive political system.
- Medrek: A political party that seeks to bring together diverse nationalities for a democratic Ethiopia.
- ENM (Ethiopian National Movement): A movement focused on national unity and the promotion of a democratic, multi-ethnic Ethiopia.
These alliances represent a concerted effort to challenge the authoritarian elites who rely on division and fear to maintain control.
The Modern Nefxenya and the Path Forward
The concept of Nefxenya—historically associated with gun-based domination—continues to shape Ethiopian politics. In the modern context, Nefxenya has evolved, but its goal remains unchanged: to suppress self-determination and prevent the democratization of Ethiopia. Both the Dergist and Woyanist regimes employed divide-and-rule tactics to prevent united resistance by Oromo freedom fighters and Amhara democrats. However, as both groups unite under the banners of democracy and freedom, their combined vision provides a powerful antidote to the Nefxenya mentality.
Conclusion: Amapianist vs. Oropianist Ethiopia
The ideological battle between Amaranet and Oromummà has reached a critical juncture. Ethiopia stands at a crossroads: will it continue under the authoritarian grip of Amaranet, or will it evolve into a democratic, inclusive federation led by Oromummà? The coming years will determine whether Ethiopia remains a centralized, Amhara-dominated state or if it embraces a future led by the principles of inclusivity, justice, and self-determination.
The handshake between Meles Zenawi and Hailu Shawel was not an act of reconciliation but rather a last-ditch effort by the elite to preserve their power. Time, however, appears to be on the side of the pro-democracy forces. The Oropianists—those advocating for a democratic, Oromo-led Ethiopia—are poised to emerge as the dominant political force, challenging the remnants of Amaranet’s authoritarian dominance.
Ultimately, the future of Ethiopia will hinge on whether the forces of Amaranet or Oromummà prevail. The outcome of this ideological struggle will shape the nation’s path for generations to come.
Galatôma!
Read more: https://orompia.wordpress.com/2023/04/1 ... opianists/