Oromo Consensus on Upward or Downward Hömogenization: A Path to Sovereignty and Unity
By Fayyis Oromia*
Dr. Léncô Latà has recently shed light on the ideological similarities between Amhara unitarists—advocates for a regression to an Amharanized unitary Ethiopia—and Oromo independents—those seeking the establishment of an independent Republic of Oromia. According to Dr. Léncô, both groups share a desire for a hömogenized state. However, their approaches diverge: Amhara elites strive for upward hömogenization, promoting an Ethiopian state with an Amharan identity, while Oromo elites champion downward hömogenization, advocating for the integration of Oromia under an Oromummà identity.
Yet, Dr. Léncô’s analysis seems to overlook two potential alternatives: an Oromummà-led upward hömogenization of Ethiopia and the downward hömogenization of the Amhara region itself. In reality, Ethiopia—where Afàn Oromô is becoming the primary federal working language—is gradually transforming into Oropia—a federal state led by the Oromummà identity. This transformation, though gradual, appears to be an irreversible process.
In his recent interviews, Dr. Léncô emphasized the importance of achieving consensus within the Oromo community on one of two well-established strategic goals: either a Democratic Oropia, as envisioned by the Oromo Federalist Congress (OFC), representing upward hömogenization, or the Republic of Oromia, advocated by the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF), reflecting downward hömogenization. He suggested that if Oromo elites can unify behind one of these visions, they could present a cohesive stance at the upcoming national dialogue in Ethiopia.
But the question remains: Can Oromo elites reach such a consensus? Should this decision be deferred to a post-liberation referendum, where the Oromo people could choose between these two forms of sovereignty? Personally, I believe that a consensus on the Democratic Oropia (upward hömogenization) would be more advantageous than opting for the Republic of Oromia (downward hömogenization). A democratized Ethiopia, incorporating the modernized Gadà system and adopting Oromic as the primary federal working language, would, in effect, become Oropia—a state that is larger and more influential than Oromia alone. I call upon all Oromo elites to embrace the vision and call for unity articulated by Dr. Léncô.
Reflecting on Oromo National Liberation
In my previous writings, I have consistently strived to contribute to the advancement of the Oromo national liberation movement, driven by a deep sense of obligation and commitment to the cause, independent of any external influence or institutional affiliation. Today, I am encouraged to witness the beginnings of consolidation within the Oromo movement—a promising shift towards unity for the sake of freedom and sovereignty.
Although we have acquired significant theoretical clarity, the next challenge lies in practical implementation. I trust that Wàqa (God) will grant us the strength and resolve needed to bring our vision into reality.
The Current Political Landscape
A prevalent theme in the ongoing political discourse within the Oromo community remains a lack of clarity. In a recent interview discussing ongoing deliberations among different factions of our liberation front regarding possible reunification, it was noted that these discussions are still in progress—an encouraging sign for those advocating for a strong and unified OLF.
One crucial takeaway from the interview was the recognition of “goal differences” among various Oromo political actors. However, the fundamental question remains: Do we truly have divergent goals, or is our challenge merely one of articulating a shared objective?
While differing historical narratives, shaped by the various experiences and sources of information, may contribute to divergent perspectives, we must come to a consensus on our shared path to liberation.
Defining Our Common Goal
For years, I have consistently advocated that the ultimate goal of the Oromo struggle is the freedom of the Oromo people and the sovereignty of Oromia. This includes:
- Establishing a sovereign Oromo state within a potential United States of Africa,
- Securing the right to self-determination through a referendum,
- Achieving Oromia’s autonomy within Ethiopia as an intermediate goal,
- And, ultimately, securing full independence.
Is this vision not sufficiently clear?
I implore Oromo elites who engage in discourse around these concepts to truly understand their meaning and recognize that we are united by a common vision. What I am reiterating here is a call to action, meant to facilitate and guide our ongoing discussions.
The Four Political Currents in Oromo Politics
Currently, Oromo political engagement is concentrated in four primary currents:
- OPP (Ruling Party): Asserts that Oromo liberation has already been achieved.
- Ezema: Denies the existence of Oromia as a separate entity, advocating for democracy across Ethiopia.
- OFC: Champions Oromia’s autonomy within Ethiopia.
- OLF and its Factions: Advocate for full independence of Oromia, with or without union with other free nations, through a referendum.
Each of these currents represents a distinct phase on the journey toward liberation. From maintaining the status quo (OPP), we may progress toward the OFC’s vision, ultimately arriving at the final goal of full independence.
Self-determination is a process that spans multiple stages—from autonomy to a referendum, to a final decision on whether to pursue national independence or a union with other liberated nations. Prematurely debating the final outcome is counterproductive. The focus now should be on securing the right to self-determination, followed by a referendum to decide our future.
On Oromo Unity and the Role of Elites
There is no inherent conflict between Oromo democratic federalists and those in the liberation front. The federalists have already found common ground, while the liberation fronts continue to strive for it. The ultimate, shared goal remains:
- The freedom of the Oromo people,
- The independence of Oromia,
- The right to self-governance through a referendum.
Attempts to create division by presenting Oropian democratization versus Oromian liberation only serve to divide us and benefit our enemies. In truth, Ethiopian democratization is a critical means to achieving Oromian liberation.
On Fragmentation and External Influence
The twin forces undermining Oromo self-determination are:
- Biltsigina (PP): Actively seeks to dismantle opposition.
- Conservative Unitarists: Although weakened, they remain ideologically committed to the continued domination of Ethiopia.
Their recent alliance poses a significant threat to our cause. Biltsigina has succeeded in polarizing the Amhara forces and fragmenting the OLF. The proliferation of over 90 fragmented political parties is not an indication of democracy but a deliberate attempt to sow division. Some media outlets and self-proclaimed analysts have exacerbated this disintegration, whether intentionally or not.
We must commend efforts toward unity, such as the merger of the OFDM and OPC to form the OFC. Likewise, we eagerly await the much-needed reunification of OLF factions, which is critical for maintaining diplomatic legitimacy, political influence, and military effectiveness.
A Strategic Path Forward
- Oromo politicians within the OPP can protect current gains.
- The OFC can continue its legal-political struggle for Oromia’s autonomy.
- A unified OLF should lead the armed resistance for Oromia’s sovereignty.
By synchronizing these three strategies—each contributing to the broader goal of a referendum—we can move toward a favorable outcome. While both armed resistance and Ethiopian democratization are challenging, a hybrid strategy—guided by strategic wisdom—will be essential.
Final Reflections
The Oromo people are a resilient and valuable nation. Despite facing overwhelming obstacles—including a hostile state supported by powerful Western interests, a lack of reliable sanctuary, and even resistance within Oromia itself—we have achieved significant progress.
Those who focus only on past failures overlook the broader picture and risk becoming unwitting tools of misinformation or misguided naivety. Focusing solely on past mistakes, without acknowledging our achievements or the context in which they occurred, only serves to demoralize rather than inspire.
Our task now is to deepen Oromo unity, build alliances with other oppressed groups, and form tactical partnerships with pro-democracy forces, all while opposing the anti-freedom alliance of the two Nefxenyas.
The goal is clear. Let us match our political clarity and strategic unity with our moral conviction.
May Wàqa guide and strengthen us.
Galatôma!
Read more: https://orompia.wordpress.com/2023/04/1 ... ic-oromia/