Is Biltsigina an Amapianist, Amarpianist, Confepianist, Orompianist, or Oropianist?
By Fayyis Oromia*
It is becoming increasingly clear that the Biltsigina Party of Dr. Abiy is neither committed to the liberation of Oromia (Oromianist = Confepianist), as envisioned by the OLF, nor to the leadership of Ethiopia under Oromummà, as proposed by the OFC (Orompianist, promoting an Oromic-led ethnic federation). It is also not an Oropianist aiming to foster an Oromic-led geo-federation.
Rather, this dictatorial party appears to be repeating the patterns of the Derg’s WPE—an ethiofascist Ethiopia under a fake geographic federation (i.e., Amapianist, trying to revive an Amharanet-dominated geo-federation)—or the Woyane’s EPRDF—an ethnofascist Ethiopia under a fake ethnic federation (i.e., Amarpianist, striving to preserve an Amharic-dominated ethnic federation).
It is truly unfortunate to witness Oromo elites sabotaging the Oromo struggle for a third time.
Three Phases of Sabotage
The revolution of 1974, initiated by the Oromo nation, was undermined by Oromo elites led by Mengistu Ayàna—an Oromo himself. The political shift of 1991 was sabotaged by elites within the OPDO and Meles Gobana — also biological Oromo, but psychological Tegaru and political Amhara, who forged an Amharic-dominated ethnic federation. Now, the 2018 movement is being sabotaged by Oromo elites under the leadership of Abiy Ahmed.
These three major revolutions were won through immense sacrifices by the Oromo people, yet each ultimately served to reinforce the dominance of Amharic—at the expense of Oromic.
There is no doubt: Biltsigina is pro-Amharic-domination, not pro-Oromic-leadership, as many had hoped. The real question now is: Which direction will Biltsigina take? Will it become EPRDF 2.0 by preserving the existing Amharic-dominated ethnic federation, or WPE 2.0 by creating an Amharic-dominated geographic federation? Only time will tell.
Evolution of the Oromo Struggle
It is fascinating to observe how the Oromo struggle has evolved over time.
Initially, the OLF envisioned an independent Oromia, grounded in a lack of confidence about winning and holding power in Finfinné.
As the struggle progressed and confidence grew, the OFC proposed a federal Orompia—offering self-rule in Oromia and shared rule in Oropia.
Today, with greater political experience and institutional access, some Oromos are beginning to imagine a fully integrated Oropia led on Oromo terms—a kind of Oropia—which surpasses the original vision of Oromia.
In this context, the OLF must adapt its vision—from independence, to federalism, and ultimately to integration—or risk becoming obsolete. The OFC is well-positioned in this transitional phase but must continue moving toward the vision of a democratic and integrated Oropia.
Although our current push toward this final goal may seem premature—given lingering doubts and “intermediate confidence”—we are likely to reach this higher level of political maturity in the near future.
The Importance of Unity
It is encouraging to see Oromo democratic parties working toward unity. The recent alliance between the OLF and OFC is promising. Hopefully, it will lead to a merger—potentially forming an Oromo Republican Party (ORP) to rival the ruling Prosperity Party.
We are approaching the end of our liberation phase and entering a phase of democratization. This demands at least two strong and competitive parties in Oromia.
Since the end of the 19th century, the Oromo people have suffered under various forms of domination—from old Abyssinian warlords to the modern TPLF elite. Today, descendants of both old and new hegemonies seem determined to regain control over the Finfinné palace.
The question we must now ask is:
Should the Oromo continue to fight each other, as our enemies desire?
Unity Based on Oromummà
I write this reflection after reading articles and listening to audios from individuals who oppose Oromo unity. I place “Oromo” in quotation marks when referring to them because their actions suggest they may be either misguided individuals or Oromic-speaking collaborators working for our “smart foes.”
Their repeated claims include:
- “Unity that dismantles unity is not real unity.”
- “Unity led by Dr. Lemma Megersa is fake.”
- “Unity that excludes certain leaders isn’t legitimate.”
- “The Oromo Liberation Army should not be controlled by the OLF.”
Before addressing these points, let’s define key terms: unity, Oromummà, and liberty.
Federation, from the Latin foedus (covenant), implies a voluntary agreement among diverse individuals or groups to work toward a shared goal—such as forming a democratic federal Ethiopia. Oromos of different regions, clans, and religions should be able to enter such a covenant, promoting liberty and refraining from actions that undermine it.
Oromummà (Oromo patriotism) is a shared identity and devotion to the common good of the Oromo people: freedom and dignity. True patriotism, in this context, means devotion not to a state, but to this collective good.
Freedom: National and Individual
Oromo freedom must be understood in two ways:
-Collective freedom: The right to self-determination—to form a state or choose the terms of one’s political relationship with others (as outlined in the UN Charter).
- Individual liberty: The right to free speech, equality, autonomy, and dignity—achieved through collective struggle.
Both types of freedom require unity built on Oromummà. Those who oppose this unity are either unaware of its importance or deliberately working against Oromo interests.
Resistance to Unity: Legitimate Concern or Sabotage?
Who are these Oromic-speaking individuals who write or speak so passionately against Oromo unity? Are they:
- Genuine Oromo patriots with differing views?
- Or paid agents of Biltsigina, sowing discord?
The ongoing repeated questions include:
- “What is unity that dismantles unity?”
- “Why is Lemma’s leadership a problem?”
- “Is excluding certain leaders really betrayal?”
- “Why separate WBO from OLF?”
…must be thoughtfully answered. But the pattern is clear: divide and rule remains the strategy of both old and new oppressors. They have always used Oromo elites—once by brute force, now by political manipulation.
Final Thoughts
Thanks to Wàqa, unity is now taking root within the global Oromo community. We are seeing encouraging signs of collaboration among previously fragmented liberation forces. A deeper, more strategic union—especially between the OLF and OFC—is now within reach. This may be followed by alliances with other genuine, non-criminal Oromo nationalists.
The false narrative that there are “irreconcilable goals” among Oromo forces is weakening. There is only one ultimate goal: Oromo freedom through self-determination, expressed in three ways:
- Tactical Goal: Autonomy within Ethiopia
- Core Goal: Independence of Oromia
- Strategic Goal: A union of free peoples in the region
This is not a secret. It is a legitimate, transparent, and achievable path forward.
We must unite around Oromummà for liberty. We must compel those in power to relinquish control. And we must encourage other oppressed groups—like the Amhara and Tigray peoples—to also seek freedom and cooperation.
The only path to peace and stability in the Horn of Africa is through the liberation of Oromia. This will benefit not only the Oromo, but all peoples of the region.
Conclusion
Now is the time for Oromo from all walks of life—across clans, parties, and faiths—to enter a covenant grounded in Oromummà. Our goal must be clear: liberty and democracy.
Once we achieve this, no power can stop us from building a union of free nations founded on mutual respect and shared prosperity. This unity is not only the right path for the Oromo—it is a solution for the broader regional instability.
Let all stakeholders—friends and foes alike—understand and respect this journey.
Galatôma!
Read more: https://orompia.wordpress.com/2018/11/2 ... e-new-odp/