The Oromo Should Not Die for Ethnic Federation: A Call for Visionary Leadership
By Fayyis Oromia*
The historical and political journey of the Oromo people in Ethiopia is laden with struggles for freedom, justice, and true representation. Dr. Marara Gudina, once a prominent member of the Meison party led by Dr. Haile Fida, envisioned an Ethiopia where the Oromo people could lead a multi-ethnic, integrated state—Oropia, with Oromic as the primary language of governance. Dr. Haile Fida’s vision sought an Ethiopia not dominated by any single ethnic group, but rather one that acknowledged the diversity of its peoples. In contrast to those who advocated for ethnic federation or an independent Oromia, Dr. Fida envisioned a unified Ethiopia, led by the Oromo majority.
Dr. Marara initially did not support the idea of ethnic federalism or independence for Oromia. He believed that democratizing Ethiopia was in the best interest of the Oromo, and that the Oromo people should not sacrifice their lives for an ethnic federation. As he famously remarked in an interview, “The Oromo need not die for ethnic federation, because democratizing Ethiopia is in the best interest of this largest nation in the country.” However, over time, Dr. Marara’s stance shifted. It is plausible that this change was influenced by the growing influence of Oromo nationalists, who were committed to preserving Oromia’s autonomy. Yet, as history has shown, ethnic federalism primarily serves the interests of Ethiopia’s smaller political elites, such as the Amhara, rather than the majority Oromo population.
The struggle of the Oromo should not merely be focused on securing Oromia, but on transforming Ethiopia into a more inclusive and democratic state—a true “Oropia.” It is not necessary for the Oromo people to sacrifice their lives for ethnic federalism or independence; instead, they should work towards creating a system where smaller ethnic groups can also exercise their autonomy, should they choose that path. For instance, it is conceivable that the Amhara in Bahir Dar might seek autonomy or even independence from the Oromo of Finfinné. However, the question remains: under the current administration of Dr. Abiy Ahmed, is it even possible for the Oromo to shift from being mere demanders of autonomy to being the givers of autonomy?
Is Dr. Abiy’s Administration Truly Oromummà-Led?
Some Oromo nationalists, like Dr. Léncô Latà, argue that Dr. Abiy’s regime represents Oromo leadership. But does it truly reflect Oromo interests? In my view, Oromo leadership can only be realized when Oromummà—Oromo identity and culture—takes its rightful place in leading Ethiopia, a “rainbow Ethiopawinet” composed of various nations and cultures. To achieve this, Oromic must be the primary working language of the Ethiopian state, used in parliamentary debates, executive orders, the judiciary, military, and security institutions. Unfortunately, the current government, under the Prosperity Party, continues to privilege Amharic, the language of historical dominance, over Oromic.
For true Oromo leadership to take shape, Oromic must occupy the central position of the federal system. Agawigna can occupy the second position, followed by Amharic. However, the current political reality shows that Dr. Abiy’s government remains committed to maintaining the dominance of Amharic, reflecting a continued marginalization of the Oromo language and culture in Ethiopian politics.
From Temporary Alliance to Tension: The Oromara Breakdown
Following the downfall of the TPLF regime, two major political forces—the Amhara and Oromo elites—have entered into open rivalry. This conflict, rooted in political conspiracy, accusations, and hostilities, was inevitable. The Oromara alliance, formed between the Amhara and Oromo elites against a common enemy, could not sustain itself once the TPLF was defeated. Now, the Amhara elites seem determined to eliminate any Oromo influence from the political center.
Oromo political figures who were once close to the palace, such as Ad. Demitü Hambisà and Ob. Lencô Bàtī, have been sidelined under the pretext of diplomatic appointments. Dr. Abiy, who remains at the center of the federal government, has not shown a clear stance in the ongoing battle between Amharanet domination and Oromummà leadership. Without a unified Oromo front, the Oromo people risk being pushed to the margins of the political structure once again. This could reignite a liberation struggle, this time against the neo-Naftagna forces, who appear to be using Dr. Abiy as a puppet, much as Mengistu Hailemariam was once used.
Abiy as Oromo’s Obama or Quisling?
In 2018, when Dr. Abiy Ahmed assumed office, there was a surge of hope among the Oromo and other ethnic groups in Ethiopia. Many saw him as a reformer, akin to Barack Obama—a leader who could unite Ethiopia and bring about a democratic transformation. Even other Ethiopian nationalities viewed him as a liberator, someone destined to lead the country toward a more inclusive future.
However, the optimism surrounding Dr. Abiy’s leadership has since dissipated. The once-promising figure has increasingly come to resemble a collaborator, or “Quisling,” in the eyes of many Oromo activists and nationalists. The term “Quisling,” referring to Vidkun Quisling, a Norwegian politician who collaborated with Nazi Germany during World War II, is now applied to Dr. Abiy, as he appears to align himself with neo-Naftagna elites to preserve the status quo of Amharanet domination.
Who Will Lead? The Oromo’s Search for Transformational Leadership
As Ethiopia approaches its next election, the Oromo people are searching for a visionary leader capable of democratizing and transforming Ethiopia into a true “Oropia.” Will it be Dr. Abiy of the Prosperity Party? Obbo Daud Ibsa of the OLF? Dr. Marara Gudina of the OFC?
All three leaders have shown the potential to lead a united Ethiopia, but the leadership of the OLF, in particular, requires a paradigm shift. The goal must go beyond liberating Oromia to include the leadership of a broader, more inclusive Ethiopia. Whoever assumes this responsibility must ensure that political power remains firmly in Oromo hands, especially in the heart of the federal system: the Caffé Aràrà (national parliament).
We cannot afford to lose the current opportunity. The Oromo people must reclaim ownership of Finfinné—not merely symbolically, but politically and economically. This requires political influence across all five levels of sovereignty: Oromia, Oropia (a democratically led Ethiopia), Orohorn (a united Horn of Africa), Orofrica (an Oromic-inspired continental vision), and the cultural-spiritual identity of Oromummà.
Democratization or Decolonization?
The central question that has long defined the Oromo struggle is whether Ethiopia’s future should prioritize democratization or decolonization. The answer is clear: genuine democratization cannot occur without first dismantling the colonial structures that continue to oppress various ethnic groups within the country. Without the decolonization of Ethiopia—a process that includes the recognition of cultural and political autonomy for all nations—there can be no meaningful democracy.
In Ethiopia’s current structure, elections are not simply contests of policy but battles between nations for survival, dominance, and liberation. This is why the question of decolonization must precede democratization. Only once the colonial system of ethnic domination is dismantled can genuine democracy, characterized by pluralism and political equality, take root.
The Iron Fist of Biltsiginna: A Dictatorship in Disguise
Under Dr. Abiy’s administration, the promise of a democratic Ethiopia has faltered. The ruling Prosperity Party, or Biltsiginna, has consolidated power around Dr. Abiy, effectively transforming Ethiopia into a centralized, authoritarian state. This regime, masquerading as a democracy, operates with the same tactics of repression and control that characterized previous dictatorships. Political opposition is stifled, and dissent is systematically crushed.
The TPLF regime was built on fear and manipulation; today, Biltsiginna uses the same tools to maintain its grip on power. In a system that is inherently undemocratic, elections are little more than a farce, designed to maintain the illusion of legitimacy rather than to reflect the will of the people.
Decolonization Must Precede Democratization
As Ethiopia continues to struggle with its colonial legacy, the path to true democracy lies in dismantling the oppressive systems that have long held the country together through force and domination. The ongoing political manipulation and the perpetuation of ethnic divisions ensure that the country remains a prison for its people. The solution is clear: Ethiopia must first undergo a process of decolonization, where each nation within its borders can govern itself freely, before it can embark on a genuine democratic transformation.
The challenge for the Oromo people—and for all Ethiopians—is to recognize that the struggle for autonomy and justice cannot be separated from the larger fight for freedom from colonial oppression. Only by decolonizing Ethiopia can its people truly enjoy the benefits of democracy.
Conclusion: Decolonize First, Then Democratize
The Oromo people are at a crossroads. The time has come to move beyond the struggle for Oromia alone and to focus on the broader vision of a just and democratic Ethiopia—Oropia. This vision requires a paradigm shift from mere liberation to nation-building, from ethnic autonomy to multinational leadership. Only by decolonizing Ethiopia can the Oromo people—and all other nations—achieve the democracy they deserve.
The question now is: Who will lead this transformation? Dr. Abiy? Obbo Daud? Dr. Marara? Or perhaps a new generation of Oromo leaders? Whoever it is, they must recognize that the struggle for Oropia is not merely a quest for Oromo self-rule, but a call to lead all of Ethiopia toward a more just and democratic future.
The Road Ahead: A Call for Unity and Visionary Leadership
The future of Ethiopia—and indeed, the future of the Oromo people—lies in the hands of visionary leaders who are not only capable of uniting their people but also of transforming the political and cultural landscape of the entire nation. As we look ahead, there are significant challenges, but also unprecedented opportunities. The Oromo have the potential to lead not just Oromia, but a whole new Ethiopia—one that is just, inclusive, and democratic.
The fundamental question remains: Will the Oromo people continue to fight for autonomy and recognition, or will they take the bold step to lead Ethiopia’s transformation from the heart of the federation? Will they act as true leaders of a federal system, or will they remain in a position where they are simply demanding autonomy for themselves?
This is a pivotal moment in Ethiopian history, one where the old paradigms of ethnic division and political manipulation must be replaced with a new, inclusive vision. The Oromo can lead Ethiopia toward an Oropia, a unified and diverse Ethiopia that values the contributions and rights of every nation and ethnicity within its borders.
Reimagining Ethiopian Federalism: A New Vision
To achieve this, the Oromo must push for a complete reimagining of the federal system. A true federalism would allow each ethnic group to maintain and develop its cultural identity while ensuring political, economic, and social equality for all. For this to work, the existing political system—dominated by the power dynamics of Amharanet and the historical elites—must be dismantled. Ethiopia’s power structure should no longer be a system of dominance by one ethnic group over another, but rather a partnership between self-governing nations, each with the right to self-determination.
This vision does not call for separatism or division; rather, it calls for a redefined union—a voluntary union based on mutual respect and common goals, where the language, culture, and rights of all ethnic groups are recognized and protected. It is a vision of Ethiopia that is founded on justice, equity, and solidarity, rather than one where the political and economic power of a few is maintained at the expense of the many.
If the Oromo people, with their rich cultural and political history, can step forward with such a vision, they will not only be able to liberate themselves, but they will also help liberate all other oppressed peoples within Ethiopia.
The Challenge of Overcoming Political Fragmentation
One of the key obstacles to achieving this new vision is political fragmentation. The Oromo political landscape has historically been divided into multiple factions, each with its own approach to the struggle. Whether it is the OLF, the OFC, or other political groups, the failure to unite these forces has allowed the status quo to persist. The current Ethiopian government, under Dr. Abiy, has exploited these divisions, weakening the opposition and preventing a strong, unified challenge to the existing system of power.
The road to true liberation for the Oromo people—and for Ethiopia as a whole—requires unity. It requires coming together under a common vision that transcends narrow ethnic or political interests and focuses on the long-term goal of a democratic, inclusive, and just Ethiopia. The Oromo have an opportunity to lead this charge, but they must first overcome internal divisions and unify around a vision for the future.
This unity must not be based solely on opposition to Dr. Abiy’s government or the current regime. It must be based on a positive vision for the future—one that offers a clear path toward an Ethiopia where all nations can thrive, and where Oromo leadership is not defined by ethnic dominance, but by a commitment to justice, democracy, and national unity.
The Role of the International Community
While Ethiopia’s internal challenges are vast and complex, the role of the international community cannot be overlooked. As Ethiopia moves forward, it will need the support of international partners who can encourage the democratic transformation of the country. This support, however, must be based on a genuine commitment to human rights, political inclusion, and the dismantling of oppressive structures. The international community should stand with the Ethiopian people in their struggle for freedom, justice, and self-determination.
The West must also recognize that Ethiopia’s path to democracy is not linear. Simply holding elections under an oppressive system will not bring about true democracy. The international community must pressure the Ethiopian government to undertake the painful but necessary work of decolonization—redefining Ethiopia’s political structure to give all nations equal power and a fair voice.
Furthermore, the international community must respect and support Ethiopia’s right to self-determination and sovereignty, while also ensuring that the country does not fall back into the clutches of dictatorship, authoritarianism, or foreign interference that only serve to prolong the suffering of its people.
A New Generation of Oromo Leaders
While older generations of Oromo political leaders have laid the groundwork for the struggle, the time may now be ripe for a new generation of leaders to step forward. This new leadership must not be content with the status quo, nor should it be satisfied with simply reforming the system. Instead, the Oromo must seek to fundamentally transform the Ethiopian political landscape.
This leadership must be visionary, courageous, and committed to the principles of democracy and justice. It must be capable of uniting the Oromo people and leading them in the quest for Oropia, a democratic Ethiopia that reflects the hopes and aspirations of all its people, not just the elites.
The new generation must also be inclusive, recognizing that Ethiopia’s future will only be secured through unity. They must build alliances with other oppressed groups, both within Ethiopia and across the Horn of Africa, in order to create a pan-African movement for justice and self-determination. This vision must extend beyond Ethiopia’s borders, inspiring other nations in the region to pursue their own paths to freedom and democracy.
Conclusion: A Time for Courageous Leadership
The road ahead for the Oromo people and for Ethiopia is long and fraught with challenges. But it is also full of promise. As the Oromo people continue their struggle, they must remember that their fight is not just for autonomy, but for a better future—for Oropia, a just and democratic Ethiopia where all nations are free to flourish.
This moment calls for leadership that is visionary, inclusive, and unyielding in its commitment to justice. It is time for the Oromo to stop asking for autonomy and begin giving it—begin leading a new Ethiopia, one that is free from the historical chains of oppression and one that values the dignity and rights of all its peoples.
The question still lingers: Will the next Oromo leader rise to this challenge? Will they embrace the opportunity to lead not just Oromia, but all of Ethiopia, and chart a path toward a truly democratic and inclusive nation?
In the coming years, Ethiopia’s future will be shaped by those with the courage to imagine a new way forward. The Oromo people, with their rich cultural heritage, their long history of resistance, and their deep sense of justice, are poised to lead that charge. The time for change is now, and the opportunity for transformation is within reach.
May the Oromo people and their leaders rise to meet this historic moment—because the future of Ethiopia, and the Horn of Africa, depends on it.
Galatôma!
Read more: https://orompia.wordpress.com/2023/05/2 ... ederation/