Is Dr. Abiy Ahmed Gradually Implementing Dr. Baro Tumsa’s and Fayyis Oromia’s Vision for the Oromo?
By Fayyis Oromia*
In recent years, there has been an observable shift in Dr. Abiy Ahmed’s political trajectory, suggesting that he is gradually aligning with the vision of Oromummà, the cultural and political identity of the Oromo people, rather than adhering to his earlier stance, which leaned heavily towards Amharanet (the Amhara-centric view of Ethiopia). This shift has particularly disappointed those elites who once viewed him as a figure capable of advancing the interests of the Amhara or Tigray elite groups, akin to former leaders such as Mengistu Hailemariam or Hailemariam Desalegn. One notable development is Dr. Abiy’s prevention of Eritrean President Isayas Afewerki from exploiting Oromia’s coffee resources—a situation that echoed the exploitative practices of the Meles Zenawi era. By taking such actions, Dr. Abiy seems to be charting a course that resonates with the vision set out by Dr. Baro Tumsa for the Oromo people.
If Dr. Abiy continues along this trajectory—championing the use of Oromiffa (the Oromo language) as the primary working language across all major federal institutions, including the palace, parliament, cabinet, courts, military, and security services—he may eventually be viewed as a national hero in Oromo history, standing alongside figures like Dr. Baro Tumsa.
The Historical Context of Leadership and Political Manipulation
Throughout Ethiopian history, several leaders have been instrumentalized by powerful elites to further their own agendas. Mengistu Hailemariam was used by the Neftegna establishment, Hailemariam Desalegn was manipulated by the Woyane (Tigrayan People’s Liberation Front), and Meles Zenawi was exploited by Eritrean authorities to weaken Ethiopia’s military and facilitate the separation of Eritrea from Ethiopia.
In contrast, Dr. Abiy has managed to thwart attempts by both the Neftegna and the Woyane to use him as a pawn. He has also displayed the potential to reverse some of the injustices inflicted by Eritrean leaders, with the possibility of reclaiming Assab—a strategic port city that was ceded to Eritrea—sometime in the future.
When Dr. Abiy ascended to power, he gained support from the three dominant ethnic groups: the Amhara, Tigray, and Oromo. The Amhara elite hoped to use him as a tool for reinforcing Ethiopiawinet (the Ethiopian nationalist cause), much as they had done with Mengistu. Tigrayan elites viewed him as a puppet, similar to their manipulation of Hailemariam Desalegn. Meanwhile, many Oromo elites saw in him the potential to implement the long-held vision of Dr. Baro Tumsa.
However, as time has passed, it has become clear that Dr. Abiy is not the figure that any of these groups had hoped he would be. The Amhara elites have failed to instrumentalize him as they did Mengistu, and the Tigrayan elites have similarly failed in their attempts to control him, as they did with Hailemariam. The question now remains whether Dr. Abiy will evolve into a proponent of Dr. Baro Tumsa’s legacy, or whether his recent alignment with Oromo aspirations is merely a temporary shift.
The Vision of Dr. Baro Tumsa
Dr. Baro Tumsa (1938–1978)—a prominent Oromo nationalist, political leader, and one of the founding members of the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF)—is remembered for his bold vision of an independent Oromo state and the promotion of Oromummà (Oromo identity). His revolutionary ideas resonate deeply with many contemporary Oromo activists, as his vision for the Oromo nation was both visionary and practical. Dr. Baro advocated for the unity of the Oromo people, emphasizing the importance of organizing all sectors of society to capture state power and bring about significant social transformation. His five-point strategy, which focused on unity, organization, capturing power, and facilitating social change, remains highly relevant today:
- Disseminate the spirit of Oromo nationalism (Oromummà).
- Be tolerant of one another and reestablish Oromo national unity.
- Build a strong organization.
- Capture state power.
- Take actions that facilitate fundamental social transformation.
Unfortunately, Oromo organizations have often fractured over differences in strategy, with some prioritizing armed struggle and others opting for nonviolent resistance. The unfortunate result has been infighting within the Oromo movement, undermining its potential for unity and success.
Dr. Abiy’s Role and the State of Oromo Nationalism
Despite initial hopes, Dr. Abiy’s government has often been accused of preserving Amharanet dominance over Oromummà, to the detriment of other ethnic identities within the Ethiopian federation. This has led to frustration among those who viewed Dr. Abiy as a potential implementer of Dr. Baro Tumsa’s vision.
The unity and collective action that Dr. Baro championed are essential today more than ever. The Oromo movement has faced significant internal challenges, particularly along regional and religious lines, which have hindered the consolidation of a strong, unified organization. Yet, the central goal remains: to retain control of the key to state power—Caffee Arara (the federal government center).
The Oromo movement’s primary task is to secure state power at the national level, which would allow them to decide whether to pursue the creation of an independent Oromia or the democratization of Ethiopia under Oromo leadership. However, achieving this goal will require overcoming internal divisions, as well as addressing the continued dominance of Amharanet in Ethiopian governance.
Pathways Forward: The Future of Oromo Power
The current state of Oromo nationalism presents several possible pathways forward, ranging from advocating for a fully independent Oromia to pursuing an integrated, multi-ethnic federation under Oromo leadership (Oropia). It is essential for Oromo leaders, both within and outside of the Oromo Prosperity Party (OPP), to agree on one crucial issue: securing and consolidating political power at the national level. Once this power is achieved, the decision about the future of Oromia—whether it should remain within Ethiopia or seek full independence—can be made from a position of strength.
The key challenge remains overcoming the divisions within the Oromo movement itself. To successfully capture and retain power at Caffee Arara, Oromo nationalists must prioritize unity and organization. Any internal division will only empower forces that are opposed to the Oromo cause. The debate over post-freedom sovereignty—whether to decolonize Oromia or democratize Ethiopia—can wait. For now, the Oromo movement must focus on securing state power.
Conclusion: The Imperative of Unity
In conclusion, the Oromo people must prioritize securing control of state power at Caffee Arara. This is not only critical for the future of Oromia but also for the broader Ethiopian polity. Once this power is secured, the Oromo will have the leverage to decide their future—whether that be the creation of an independent Oromia or the transformation of Ethiopia into a new, democratic federation under Oromo leadership.
Despite the shortcomings of Dr. Abiy’s OPP in fully realizing the aspirations of the Oromo people, the struggle for Oromo self-determination continues. As Fayyis Oromia aptly stated, “Keep Oromo power at Caffee Arara by any means necessary.” This principle should be the guiding force for all Oromo nationalists as they navigate the complexities of Ethiopian politics and work towards securing a future that aligns with the aspirations of Dr. Baro Tumsa and the Oromo people.
May Wàqa (God) grant the Oromo people the wisdom and strength to achieve this vision, and may they shape the future of Ethiopia in a way that reflects their true identity, dignity, and aspirations.
Galatôma!
Read more: https://orompia.wordpress.com/2023/03/1 ... aro-tumsa/