Dr. Lamma Magarsa as Mandela and Dr. Abiy Ahmed as de Klerk of Ethiopia?
By Fayyis Oromia*
It appears that Ethiopia may be approaching a critical juncture—potentially transitioning from dictatorship to democracy. In this context, Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed could assume a role similar to that of F.W. de Klerk, the last white president of apartheid-era South Africa who chose to dismantle the system that empowered him. Meanwhile, Dr. Lamma Magarsa may represent Ethiopia’s equivalent of Nelson Mandela—a unifying nationalist figure capable of leading a post-authoritarian, democratic future.
This process is already underway, with active involvement from American and broader Western actors. Oromo elites, long polarized, are beginning to coalesce in recognition of the historical opportunity at hand. Yet, internal divisions—between Abiy’s allies and those aligned with Jawar Mohammed—continue to challenge Oromo unity. Resolving this rift is essential for advancing the Oromo cause and steering Ethiopia toward genuine democracy.
The best common denominator that might reconcile Abiy’s bloc with Jawar’s camp is the perceived threat of the Northerners’ return to the Finfinne palace. Currently, the Oromo people face two significant adversaries: the dictatorial regime of Biltsiginna, which holds power, and the nostalgic oppressive Northerners attempting to reclaim the Finfinne palace. As a result, Oromo nationalists appear divided over which threat to prioritize in their struggle. During this period of political contest between Biltsiginna and the Northerners, some Oromo elites advocate supporting Biltsiginna to prevent a Northern resurgence. Meanwhile, others choose to oppose Biltsiginna, even if that aligns them—by default—with Northern interests.
Read more: https://orompia.wordpress.com/2020/05/3 ... -birtukan/