By Sleshie Kassie
UK
The current Ethiopian government, led by the Prosperity Party under Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, has been systematically targeting the Amhara people through various means—political, social, economic, and even through acts that some describe as genocidal. This essay seeks to shed light on these multifaceted attacks and the ideological underpinnings driving them.
Political Suppression and Ideological Motives
The ideology fueling this systemic marginalization appears to be rooted in “Oromummaa,” a philosophy that prioritizes Oromo dominance, which dates back over five decades to the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF). Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, who has openly acknowledged past affiliations with the OLF, has continued to perpetuate this ideology under the guise of the Prosperity Party. By strategically appointing individuals with negative attitudes toward the Amhara people and their heritage, such as in key ministerial positions, the government undermines the cultural and historical significance of the Amhara, particularly their Orthodox Christian faith.
The ultimate goal seems to be the formation of a “Greater Oromia,” which involves annexing various regions like Shewa, Wollo, Benishangul-Gumuz, and parts of Somali and Afar. This ambition sees the Amhara people and the Orthodox Church as major obstacles, leading to deliberate actions to weaken their influence and presence.
Social and Economic Marginalization
Socially, the Amhara people face significant discrimination. Amharas living outside the Amhara region often conceal their identity due to fear of ethnic-based attacks. The federal system forces individuals to declare a singular ethnic identity, which exacerbates the exclusion of those with mixed heritage. Economically, Amharas are subjected to discriminatory practices, such as excessive taxation, defamation, and restrictions on business operations. Wealthy Amhara individuals are targeted through various means, including unfair taxes, blocked bank accounts, and delays in importing goods. These tactics aim to drive them out of the market.
Moreover, the government’s use of initiatives like “green smart city” projects and “rehabilitation” programs have led to the demolition of Amhara-majority towns and business centers without adequate compensation. Amharas are also restricted from moving freely, particularly into Addis Ababa, further limiting their economic opportunities.
Targeted Violence and Military Aggression
The violence against the Amhara people is pervasive and brutal. Innocent civilians, including children, women, the elderly, and even unborn children, are targeted. Amhara individuals in the Oromia region face relentless attacks simply for their ethnic identity. This extends to systematic killings, often executed through drone strikes, which have claimed the lives of numerous innocent people.
Additionally, the Ethiopian military has been complicit in these actions, using schools, universities, health centers, and stadiums in the Amhara region as mobile camps, often dismantling materials and documents upon leaving. Such actions demonstrate a blatant disregard for the welfare and development of the Amhara community.
Systematic Removal from Federal Institutions
Amhara elites and employees face systematic exclusion from federal institutions. Many are dismissed from prominent organizations like Ethiopian Airlines, Ethio Telecom, and the Central Bank of Ethiopia. This targeted removal severely limits their ability to participate in the country’s governance and economic activities, further marginalizing the community.
Conclusion
The systematic marginalization of the Amhara people by the Ethiopian government is a grave injustice that requires urgent attention. Through political suppression, economic discrimination, social exclusion, and violent attacks—including the use of drones—the Prosperity Party and its Oromuma ideology are reshaping Ethiopia at the expense of the Amhara population. The international community must recognize these acts and advocate for the rights and protection of the Amhara people, ensuring a more inclusive and equitable future for all Ethiopians.
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